MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Osmolality test

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Osmolality test

An osmolality urine test is performed to measure the concentration of particles in urine. Greater than normal results may indicate conditions such as Addison's disease, congestive heart failure or shock. Lower-than-normal measurements may indicate aldosteronism, diabetes insipidus, excess fluid intake, renal tubular necrosis or severe pyelonephritis.

Update Date: 10/22/2007

Updated by: Robert Mushnick, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Nephrology, SUNY Downstate Health Center, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.