New England · Selenium Urine Test – Deficiency Testing
Selenium Urine Test – Deficiency Testing in Maine
This page explains the selenium urine test – deficiency testing, what it measures, and how to order it. A selenium urine test measures how much selenium is excreted in urine, which can reflect recent exposure or body levels. It is used to monitor industrial exposure or help evaluate a possible deficiency.
Lab requirements in Maine
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Selenium Urine Test – Deficiency Testing in ME. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Some tests require fasting or avoiding certain foods or drinks beforehand. You will be informed when you order — confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Preparation
- Preparation depends on the type of urine collection and the laboratory's procedures. Follow the specific instructions provided by the collection lab.
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This test measures the amount of selenium in a urine sample. Selenium is a trace element that acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid and immune function. Urine selenium mainly reflects recent intake and excretion, so it is often used alongside other tests.
What it measures
- Urine selenium — reflects recent selenium intake and excretion
- Creatinine (if measured) — helps adjust for urine concentration
- Collection volume (for 24-hour) — used to calculate total daily excretion
What the test involves
You will collect a urine sample, usually a spot sample or a 24-hour collection, following the lab's instructions. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test to monitor workplace exposure to selenium or to help assess whether selenium levels are too low. It can also be used to follow up on abnormal findings from other tests.
Preparation
Preparation depends on the type of urine collection and the laboratory's procedures. Follow the specific instructions provided by the collection lab.
How results are reported
Results are reported as a concentration or total amount of selenium in the urine, often with a reference range. Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by the type of collection, so your result should be interpreted in that context.
Before you go
- Whether a spot or 24-hour urine collection is required
- Any dietary or supplement restrictions before collection
- How and when to return the sample to the lab
Cities
Selenium Urine Test – Deficiency Testing in Maine communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.