Low calcium levels in urine can stem from several underlying health conditions. It's important to note that low urine calcium isn't a condition itself, but rather a symptom that warrants further investigation.
Underlying Medical Conditions:
Several conditions can lead to lower-than-normal calcium excretion in urine. These include:
-
Hypoparathyroidism: This condition occurs when the parathyroid glands don't produce enough parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels. Insufficient PTH can lead to decreased calcium absorption from the intestines and reduced calcium release from bones, ultimately resulting in lower urinary calcium excretion. (Source: Lower than normal calcium levels in urine may be a sign of: Hypoparathyroidism (too little parathyroid hormone) 07-Jun-2022)
-
Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function can affect calcium reabsorption, leading to lower levels in urine. The kidneys' role in regulating calcium balance is crucial, and dysfunction can significantly impact urinary calcium levels. (Source: Lower than normal calcium levels in urine may be a sign of: Kidney disease. 07-Jun-2022)
-
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) can also contribute to low urine calcium. The thyroid hormones influence various metabolic processes, including calcium metabolism. Insufficient thyroid hormone can disrupt the intricate balance of calcium regulation, leading to reduced urinary excretion. (Source: Lower than normal calcium levels in urine may be a sign of: Hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone) 07-Jun-2022)
-
Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia (FHH): This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the way the kidneys handle calcium. Individuals with FHH may have higher-than-normal blood calcium levels but lower-than-normal urine calcium levels, despite the body’s overall calcium level being too high. (Source: Another cause of low urine calcium is familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH), also known as familial benign hypercalcemia. This disease is often initially…)
Understanding the Urine Calcium Test:
A urine calcium test measures the amount of calcium present in a urine sample. This test helps assess various health conditions, including kidney stones and other medical issues related to calcium regulation. (Source: A calcium in urine test measures calcium levels in urine. Abnormal calcium levels may indicate a kidney stone or other medical condition.) The test itself is painless; however, careful collection procedures are required for accurate results. (Source: It measures the amount of calcium in your pee. It's a helpful tool for your doctor, and it's painless for you, though it can take some time.)
Low levels of urinary calcium, generally below 50–100mg/24-h in individuals on unrestricted diets, are often considered abnormal. (Source: Urinary calcium below 50–100mg/24-h in women and men on unrestricted diets is commonly considered to be abnormal;)
