CITRATE – 24 HRS URINE

This test measures the amount of citrate excreted in urine over a 24-hour period. Citrate is a natural substance that helps prevent the formation of kidney stones by binding calcium and reducing crystal formation.

The purpose of this test is to:

• Measure citrate levels in 24-hour urine
• Assess risk of kidney stone formation
• Evaluate metabolic causes of stone disease
• Monitor treatment for kidney stone prevention
• Support overall renal and metabolic evaluation

CITRATE – 24 HRS URINE Test Purpose

The Citrate – 24 Hours Urine Test measures the amount of citrate excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period. Citrate is a naturally occurring substance that helps prevent the formation of kidney stones by binding with calcium and reducing the formation of calcium-based crystals in the urinary tract. Low urinary citrate levels (hypocitraturia) are a significant risk factor for developing recurrent kidney stones, particularly calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate stones.

This test is commonly recommended for individuals with a history of recurrent kidney stones, unexplained urinary stone formation, or suspected metabolic disorders affecting citrate excretion. It is often included as part of a comprehensive 24-hour urine stone risk evaluation, along with measurements of calcium, oxalate, uric acid, sodium, and other urinary components. The test also helps healthcare providers evaluate the effectiveness of dietary changes, increased fluid intake, or medications such as potassium citrate prescribed to prevent future kidney stones.

CITRATE – 24 HRS URINE Test is Recommended for Individuals:

• Individuals with recurrent kidney stones.
• People with a history of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate kidney stones.
• Patients undergoing evaluation for metabolic causes of kidney stone formation.
• Individuals being monitored during treatment for kidney stone prevention.
• People with chronic metabolic acidosis or conditions affecting urinary citrate levels.
• Anyone advised by a nephrologist or urologist to assess kidney stone risk.

FAQs

1. What is the Citrate 24-Hour Urine Test used for?
The Citrate 24-Hour Urine Test measures the amount of citrate excreted in urine to assess the risk of kidney stone formation, identify low urinary citrate levels, and monitor treatment for recurrent kidney stones.

2. How do I collect a 24-hour urine sample for this test?
You need to collect all urine passed during a 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. Following the collection instructions carefully is essential to ensure accurate test results.

3. What does a low citrate level in urine indicate?
Low urinary citrate levels may increase the risk of developing kidney stones and can be associated with dehydration, metabolic acidosis, certain kidney disorders, or dietary factors. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results along with other urine tests and your clinical history.