Calcium in Urine Test
What is a Calcium in Urine Test?
A Calcium in Urine test is a type of diagnostic tool used to measure the amount of calcium in a urine sample. Calcium is an essential mineral in the body and is important for the development, function, and maintenance of bones and teeth. An increase in calcium concentrations in the urine may be a sign of certain underlying medical conditions.
Preparation for a Calcium Urine Test
Calcium urine tests are typically completed in a doctor's office or a hospital. The patient is typically asked to provide a sample of urine, for which no preparation is needed. A 24-hour urine collection test may also sometimes be requested, in which the patient will need to collect all urine output over a 24-hour period.
Procedure of a Calcium Urine Test
A Calcium Urine test typically involves the patient providing a urine sample, which the testing staff will then analyze in the laboratory for calcium levels. If the patient has been asked to do a 24-hour urine collection test, they will be provided with a container and asked to collect all urine over a 24-hour period. The patient will then have to ensure that the sample is refrigerated and taken back to the testing center.
Types of Calcium Urine Test
There are several different types of calcium urine tests available, including:
- Urine Dipstick Test – This is a simple and quick test performed in a doctor's office that uses a chemical test strip to detect calcium in the urine.
- Urine Ionized Calcium Test – This is the most precise test used to measure levels of free ionized calcium in the urine.
- Urine 24-Hour Test – This test requires the patient to collect all of their urine output over 24-hour period in order to measure the total amount of calcium excreted in the urine.
Risks Associated with a Calcium Urine Test
A Calcium Urine test is considered a safe procedure with few risks. However, if the patient is asked to do a 24-hour urine collection test, they may experience a feeling of urgency or have difficulty holding their urine for the duration of the test.
Why is a Calcium Urine Test Done?
A Calcium Urine test is typically ordered by a doctor if they suspect that the patient may be suffering from a medical condition that is causing excessive amounts of calcium to be excreted in the urine. The test can be useful in diagnosing certain conditions such as kidney stones, kidney damage, or an overactive parathyroid gland.
When is a Calcium Urine Test Ordered?
A Calcium Urine test is typically ordered by a doctor when they suspect that the patient may be suffering from a medical condition that is causing excessive amounts of calcium to be excreted in the urine. Symptoms that might indicate this include kidney stones, kidney damage, excessive thirst, and fatigue.
Normal Calcium Urine Test Results
Normal results of a Calcium Urine test typically show levels of calcium between 2.5 and 10 milligrams per deciliter. However, this range can vary based on the type of test being performed. High levels of calcium in the urine may be a sign of certain medical conditions and will require further testing to confirm the diagnosis.
