Lab test
Mercury, Urine Test
A mercury urine test measures how much mercury is being excreted in urine.
- Typical price
- From $229
- Results
- 1-3 business days
- Preparation
- See preparation notes below
- Sample
- Blood draw or sample collection at a local center
About this test
A mercury urine test measures how much mercury is being excreted in urine. This form of testing is often used to evaluate longer-term or ongoing exposure, because the kidneys clear mercury over time and urinary levels can reflect the body's burden more persistently than blood. It may also be used to monitor people with known occupational or environmental exposure. Results are compared with reference ranges and interpreted together with exposure history. As with any screening test, a urine mercury result should be reviewed with a healthcare provider before conclusions are drawn.
What this test measures
- Mercury (urine) The amount of mercury excreted in a urine sample, used to assess ongoing or longer-term exposure to the metal.
Who this test may be right for
- People with ongoing workplace exposure to mercury or mercury-containing compounds
- Individuals who regularly eat large amounts of high-mercury fish
- Anyone being monitored after a documented mercury exposure
- People with symptoms that a healthcare provider suspects may relate to metal exposure
- Those who want to follow up an abnormal blood mercury result
Before your visit
- No fasting is required for this test
- A urine sample is collected, sometimes as a first-morning or timed collection; follow the lab's instructions
- Stay normally hydrated unless told otherwise
- Avoid a heavy seafood meal for about two to three days beforehand
- Tell the lab about supplements and medications
Understanding your results
An elevated urine mercury level may indicate increased ongoing or stored exposure to mercury. A result within the reference range generally suggests that urinary excretion is not elevated, though it does not exclude every form of exposure. Because urine mercury reflects how the kidneys are clearing the metal, results are interpreted with diet, occupation, and symptoms. This test is a screening tool rather than a diagnosis. Discuss the findings with a healthcare provider, who can decide whether additional testing is warranted.
Order this test online
- Buy online in a few minutes - no doctor's visit needed for most tests.
- Sample collection at a patient service center near you.
- Results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
- Secure, lab-reviewed results delivered to your account.
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Questions people ask
Why use a urine test instead of a blood test for mercury?
Urine mercury reflects how much of the metal the body is excreting over time, which can be useful for ongoing or longer-term exposure, while blood mercury tends to reflect more recent exposure.
Is fasting required for a mercury urine test?
No. The mercury urine test does not require fasting. Hydration and avoiding a heavy seafood meal for a few days beforehand are the main considerations.
Can a urine mercury result be normal even with exposure?
Yes. A single urine sample may not capture all exposure, and timing matters, so a normal mercury result does not by itself rule out every possible exposure.
What does the Mercury, Urine Test measure?
Order Mercury, Urine Test.com online through our partner and visit a local lab near you.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Follow the lab's instructions.
How long do results take?
Most Mercury, Urine Test results are released in 1-3 business days. Specialty testing can take longer.
Is this test right for me?
This page is educational and not medical advice. Talk to a licensed healthcare provider about which tests fit your situation.
LabBookings is an independent directory. We compare test details and pricing information, but we are not a laboratory and we do not perform testing or provide medical advice. Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider about your results and treatment.
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