Mercury (Urine)
The Mercury (Urine) test measures mercury excreted in urine to assess exposure and body burden. It is particularly useful for evaluating inorganic mercury exposure.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Mercury (Urine)
What is the Mercury (Urine) test?
The Mercury (Urine) test measures the amount of mercury eliminated through the kidneys. Urine testing primarily reflects inorganic mercury exposure, such as that from occupational sources, environmental contact, or dental materials.
Unlike blood mercury, which reflects recent organic mercury intake (mainly from seafood), urine mercury provides insight into chronic exposure and renal excretion. This makes it especially valuable in occupational health and toxicology assessment.
The test can be performed on a spot urine sample or a 24-hour collection, depending on clinical context.
Why do I need a Mercury (Urine) test?
Inorganic mercury exposure may cause long-term health effects and may not be obvious on blood testing alone.
You may need this test if you:
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Work in environments with mercury exposure
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Have occupational or environmental exposure concerns
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Experience tremor, irritability, or memory issues
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Have kidney-related symptoms
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Need monitoring after known exposure
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Have dental or industrial exposure history
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Require chronic exposure assessment
The test helps determine whether mercury is being absorbed and excreted by the body.
Benefits of the test
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Assesses inorganic mercury exposure
Best test for non-dietary mercury sources. -
Supports occupational health screening
Commonly used for workplace monitoring. -
Evaluates kidney excretion
Reflects renal handling of mercury. -
Useful in chronic exposure assessment
Identifies long-term accumulation. -
Non-invasive testing
Requires a urine sample. -
Complements blood mercury testing
Provides a fuller exposure picture. -
Guides exposure reduction strategies
Supports environmental and workplace review. -
Helps prevent long-term toxicity
Enables early detection and follow-up.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
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Choose your nearest UK clinic
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Receive urine collection instructions
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Provide a urine sample
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Sample sent to the laboratory
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Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel collection (+£60, UK-wide)
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Urine collection kit provided
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Sample collected at home or hotel
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Sample returned for laboratory analysis
Your results explained
Low mercury
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Mercury within reference range
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UK standard (typical): <5 µg/L (or creatinine-adjusted equivalent)
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Suggests no significant inorganic exposure
Moderately elevated mercury
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Above reference range
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UK standard (typical): 5–20 µg/L
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May indicate increased environmental or occupational exposure
High mercury
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Significantly elevated mercury levels
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UK standard: >20 µg/L
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Suggests potentially harmful exposure requiring further evaluation
Results may be creatinine-adjusted; reference ranges can vary by laboratory.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.