Can this result diagnose a condition on its own?

No. Laboratory results are interpreted with symptoms, medical history, specimen conditions and related tests.

Which reference range should I use?

Start with the performing laboratory's own reference interval; clinical cutoffs, when relevant, are separate sourced thresholds used for a specific purpose.

When should I discuss the result with a healthcare professional?

Results that are clearly outside range, persistent, symptomatic or unexpected should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

Information about a laboratory test

High Urea: What Does It Mean?

High urea can occur with reduced kidney function, dehydration or increased protein breakdown.

Test summary

Test name: Urea
Abbreviations: UREA
Category: Nephrology / Nitrogen Waste
Panel: Renal Function
Specimen: Serum / plasma
Common units: mg/dL, mmol/L

What does the test measure?

Measures blood urea, one of the main waste products formed from protein metabolism.

Why is the test ordered?

Contributes to kidney-function and hydration assessment; BUN reflects the nitrogen component of the same metabolite system.

Information about a low result

Low urea can occur with low protein intake, excess body water or reduced hepatic urea synthesis.

Information about a high result

High urea can occur with reduced kidney function, dehydration or increased protein breakdown.

Reference and clinical context

Start with the performing laboratory's reference interval, unit and specimen conditions. Numeric information on this page is stored as sourced example intervals or clinical thresholds.

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.

Interpretation notes

Urea and BUN are closely related but are not numerically identical. The laboratory's unit and reporting convention matter.

Related specialties

Nephrology
Internal Medicine
Family Medicine

Frequently asked questions

Sources

Creatinine Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2026 · Creatinine limitations and use with eGFR, BUN and urine testing · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
BUN - Blood Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2026 · BUN meaning, kidney/liver/hydration context and example interval · Verified: Aug 12, 2026