Lead/Creatinine Ratio, Random, Urine
Use
Detecting clinically significant lead exposure, a toxic heavy metal, using random urine specimens. Increased urinary lead concentration per gram of creatinine indicates significant lead exposure. Measurement of urine lead concentration per gram of creatinine before and after chelation therapy have been used as an indicator of significant lead exposure. This test is not a substitute for blood lead screening. Urinary lead excretion mainly reflects recent exposure and shares limitations for assessing body burden or long-term exposure. Normal excretion (4 mcg/g creatinine is usually associated with pallor, anemia, and other evidence of lead toxicity.
Special Instructions
Profile includes two components: PBCU (Lead/Creatinine Ratio, U) and CRETR (Creatinine, Random, U). Metals analysis specimen collection and transport instructions apply. NY State availability: Yes. Performing laboratory: Mayo Clinic Laboratories – Rochester Superior Drive.
Limitations
Urinary lead excretion reflects recent exposure and exhibits high intra‑individual variability even at similar blood lead concentrations. This test is not a substitute for blood lead screening.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 13466-8
- 2161-8
- 13466-8
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
1.5 mL
Minimum Volume
1.5 mL
Container
metal‑free screw‑capped vial (T173) recommended
Collection Instructions
Random urine specimen; metals analysis specimen collection and transport instructions; aliquot into metal‑free screw‑capped vial and refrigerate.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |