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Amylase/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures amylase relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration when evaluating amylase excretion.

Quick summary

["The ratio compares urinary amylase with urinary creatinine and may help assess amylase release from the pancreas or salivary glands."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26601-5
Short code
AAA/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
AAA/Creat Ur-sRto
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 amount of amylase and creatinine in a urine sample and calculates their ratio. The comparison helps account for variations in how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used in the evaluation of suspected pancreatic or salivary gland inflammation and in monitoring some gastrointestinal conditions. It is generally used as an additional test rather than as the only evidence for a diagnosis.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and tested in the laboratory for amylase and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the amylase-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician, which may include a first-morning or timed urine sample. A clean-catch collection is often requested, and fasting is usually not required unless specifically directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated ratio may occur with inflammation of the pancreas or salivary glands, but it is not specific for these conditions. Results can also be affected by urine concentration, kidney function, collection timing, and medications. The result should be interpreted by your clinician together with symptoms, examination findings, and other laboratory tests.

Short name

Urine amylase/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the amylase/creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of amylase with the amount of creatinine in the same urine sample. This helps adjust for variations in urine concentration.
What conditions can an elevated result suggest?
An elevated result may suggest increased amylase release, such as during pancreatic or salivary gland inflammation. It can also occur with reduced kidney clearance and is not diagnostic by itself.
Do I need to fast or collect a 24-hour urine sample?
Fasting is usually unnecessary, and the collection method depends on your clinician's instructions. Some tests use a first-morning or timed sample rather than a 24-hour collection.
  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