Zinc, Urine
Also known as: ZINC U
Use
This test is useful as an indicator of acute zinc toxicity. It may also be helpful in detecting zinc deficiency when used in conjunction with serum or plasma zinc levels. Elevated urine zinc levels can indicate excessive zinc supplementation and should be compared alongside serum zinc concentrations for accurate interpretation. This test is approved for use in New York State and performs its analysis via quantitative ICP-MS, which is optimal for trace element detection.
Special Instructions
To ensure accurate results, patients should avoid dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications before the test, per physician advice. Collections from individuals who recently underwent iodinated or gadolinium-based contrast procedures should be delayed by at least 72 hours, and those with impaired kidney function should wait 14 days post contrast exposure.
Limitations
Test results could be confounded by contamination from non-trace element-free containers or improper specimen collection. Elevated results could stem from contamination due to collection procedures, skin exposure or misuse of collection containers. Confirmation with a second specimen may be necessary if contamination is suspected. Environmentally high iodine or gadolinium levels might interfere with the analysis, potentially leading to incorrect results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 21610-1
- 27201-3
- 5765-3
- 21610-1
- 5765-3
- 27201-3
- 35674-1
- 2162-6
- 30211-7
- 19153-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plastic container or ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tubes
Collection Instructions
Collect a 24-hour urine specimen and refrigerate it during the collection. A random urine sample is also acceptable.
Patient Preparation
Avoid nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential medications. Postpone sample collection for at least 72 hours after iodinated or gadolinium-based contrast media exposure.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated storage is recommended, though room temperature or frozen storage is acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens not in trace element-free containers, contaminated with blood or fecal material, or collected within 72 hours of contrast media administration will be rejected.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |