A 24-hour urine collection test is a laboratory test to measure the content of certain substances in the urine, which can be used as a diagnostic indicator of the function of the kidneys.
The test involves the collection of all urine in several containers over a complete 24-hour period. It is important that the urine samples are kept in a cool environment until they are analyzed in a laboratory to ensure the results are unaltered.
The 24-hour urine collection test can provide useful information about the concentration of protein, hormones, minerals and other chemicals in the urine. This can help in the diagnosis of kidney disease, which may be associated with various health conditions, including:
There is no specific preparation needed, except for the provision of several large containers to collect and store the urine for the analysis. Access to a storage place to keep the urine out of heat that may confound the results should also be ensured.
It is important that patients understand what the 24-hour urine collection test involves and what they need to do to get the best results. In particular, they should try to maintain their regular daily routine and avoid excess of foods that may affect the sample, such as those containing caffeine.
The 24-hour period when the urine samples will be collected can begin at any time of the day. Many find it easiest to start first thing in the morning and collect samples over the next 24 hours.
There is no need to retain a sample from the first urination, but the time should be recorded, and it is important that all urine from that point is collected for the following 24 hours. The final sample can be taken exactly 24-hour after the first urination.
All urine samples within the sampling period should be saved and kept cool in a refrigerator until the test is complete and the sample can be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
