Skip to main content

Pathology tests database

Back to Clinical Biochemistry

Urea

Clinical Biochemistry

Sample and container requirements

Serum Lithium Heparin Plasma (paediatrics only)

Minimum volume required

Special requirements

None

Patient preparation

None

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.

Reference range

Neonates (<4 weeks): 0.8 – 5.5 mmol/L Infant (4 weeks – 1 year): 1.0 – 5.5 mmol/L 1 – 16 years: 2.5 – 6.5 mmol/L Adult: 2.5 – 7.8 mmol/L (Source: Pathology Harmony Recommendations)

Clinical guidance

Urea forms part of the standard U&E (urea and electrolyte) panel in blood. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about urea. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/urea-test

Notes

Images to go here

This information was last updated on 19 August 2026