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4ohbenzoateurql

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A urine test that checks for the presence of 4-hydroxybenzoate, a substance that may indicate certain metabolic disorders or toxic exposures.

Quick summary

{"This test detects 4-hydroxybenzoate in your urine","It helps diagnose conditions like tyrosinemia or assess toxic exposure","A simple urine sample is all that's needed","Results are reported as positive or negative (presence/absence)","Follow your doctor's instructions for sample collection"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43732-7
Short code
4-HBA U
Synonyms
4OHBenzoate Ur Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container (plastic or glass)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
80307
SNOMED
104617004
Specimen volume
10-50 mL preferred
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 4-hydroxybenzoate urine test is a diagnostic test that detects whether 4-hydroxybenzoate is present in your urine. 4-Hydroxybenzoate is a chemical compound that can accumulate in the body when certain metabolic processes are not working properly. This test is qualitative, meaning it simply tells whether the substance is present (positive) or not present (negative), rather than measuring the exact amount.

Why do I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect you have a metabolic disorder, particularly tyrosinemia, which is a condition where the body cannot properly break down the amino acid tyrosine. This test may also be used to monitor patients with known metabolic conditions or to assess exposure to certain toxic substances that can produce 4-hydroxybenzoate as a byproduct.

How is the test performed?

This test requires a urine sample. You will be given a sterile container to collect a mid-stream urine sample. For best results, follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider regarding when to collect the sample (such as first morning urine) and any dietary restrictions to follow before the test. The sample will be sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed using specialized chemical methods.

What do the results mean?

A 'positive' result means that 4-hydroxybenzoate was detected in your urine, which may indicate a metabolic disorder or recent exposure to certain substances. A 'negative' result means that 4-hydroxybenzoate was not detected in significant amounts. Your doctor will interpret these results in conjunction with your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to make a diagnosis or determine appropriate next steps.

Reference range

Not DetectedN/A

Specimen: urine

Collect a clean-catch midstream urine sample in a sterile container. No special preparation required. Inform the laboratory of any medications or supplements being taken as certain compounds may interfere with testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required before this test?
Your doctor may ask you to fast for a certain period before the test, depending on the reason for testing. Follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
This is a simple urine test with minimal risks. You may experience slight discomfort when providing a urine sample, but there are no significant health risks involved.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days, but this may vary depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results once they are available.
What happens if my test is positive?
If your test is positive, your doctor will likely order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the underlying cause. This may include blood tests, genetic testing, or imaging studies. Treatment will depend on the specific condition diagnosed.
Can medications affect my test results?
Certain medications and supplements may affect test results. Inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking before the test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - TyrosinemiaSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Test DirectorySource
  3. 3
    National Institutes of Health - Metabolic DisordersSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy