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Alternative names, keywords |
K, potassium output |
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Samples required |
24 hour collection or random urine in plain container. Instructions for 24h urine collection available here or on UHSussex public site. |
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Test indications |
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Factors affecting test performance/ results |
Contamination with erythrocyte contents will elevate results, because the potassium concentration in erythrocytes is 25x higher than in normal plasma. The degree of interference may be variable depending on the content of analyte in the lysed erythrocytes. Results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient’s medical history, clinical examination and other findings. |
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Reference range |
25 - 125 mmol/24h Varies significantly with diet - these values are typical of people on an average diet. A high result does not prove a renal cause for hypokalaemia. |
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Turnaround time |
Same day (within 1h if urgent) |
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Enquiries |
Biochemistry (Automation) |