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Amino Acids and Creatinine, Urine

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

Measures amino acids and creatinine in urine to evaluate how the body processes amino acids and excretes them.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help identify abnormalities in amino acid metabolism or kidney handling."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13666-3
Short code
AAA/Creat Ur
Synonyms
AAA/Creat Ur
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the amounts of different amino acids and creatinine in a urine sample. Creatinine is included because urine amount and concentration can vary, so it helps clinicians interpret the amino acid results.

Why might I need this test?

Clinicians may order this test to investigate possible inherited or acquired problems in amino acid metabolism. It may be considered when there is unexplained poor growth, developmental concerns, seizures, feeding problems, or other symptoms that suggest a metabolic condition.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to measure its amino acid and creatinine content. Depending on the test requested, the specimen may be a single urine collection or a collection collected over 24 hours.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or your clinician. If a 24-hour collection is requested, record the start and finish times and collect all urine during that period; otherwise, provide the sample as directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine amino acids and creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does this test show?
It shows the amounts of amino acids and creatinine in urine. This can help clinicians evaluate amino acid metabolism and how the kidneys handle amino acids.
Is a 24-hour urine collection always required?
No. Some requests use a single urine specimen, while others require collection over 24 hours. Follow the specific instructions given by your clinician or laboratory.
What can cause abnormal results?
Abnormal results may occur with inherited metabolic disorders, impaired kidney transport, dehydration, or changes in muscle mass. Your clinician will interpret the pattern in the context of your health and other test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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