Ordering Guidance

A timed 24-hour collection is the preferred specimen for measuring and interpreting this urinary analyte. Order CITR / Citrate Excretion, 24 Hour, Urine.

Random collections normalized to urinary creatinine may be of some clinical use in patients who cannot collect a 24-hour specimen, typically small children.

Specimen Required

Patient Preparation: Any drug that causes alkalemia or acidemia may be expected to alter citrate excretion and should be avoided, if possible. The patient must avoid laxative use for 24 hours prior to collection.

Supplies: Sarstedt 5 mL Aliquot Tube (T914)

Container/Tube: Plastic, 5-mL tube

Specimen Volume: 4 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Collect a random urine specimen.

2. No preservative.