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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid in urine collected over 24 hours. This test may be used to evaluate amino acid metabolism and nutritional status.

Quick summary

["This test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid excretion using a 24-hour urine collection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6870-0
Short code
A-Aminobutyr 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr 24h Ur-mCnc
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?

Alpha-aminobutyric acid is an amino acid found in the body. This test measures its concentration in a urine sample collected over 24 hours and may provide information about amino acid metabolism and nutritional status.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of unusual symptoms, suspected metabolic conditions, or nutritional concerns. It is often interpreted together with other amino acid measurements and clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, usually in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The completed collection is then submitted for measurement, and the result may be reported as an amount per unit volume of urine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including the start and stop times. Tell the clinician about medicines, supplements, unusual diets, pregnancy, or recent illness because these may affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal result may reflect changes in amino acid metabolism, nutritional status, hydration, or incomplete urine collection. Rare inherited metabolic disorders can sometimes alter urinary amino acid levels, so the result should be interpreted by a clinician alongside symptoms, diet, medicines, and other laboratory tests.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to collect every urine sample during the 24 hours?
Usually, yes. The goal is to collect all urine from the specified start time through the full 24-hour period, including samples taken overnight.
What if I miss part of the collection?
Tell the laboratory or clinician, because a missed sample can make the result less reliable. You may be asked to repeat the collection.
Does drinking more or less water affect the result?
Hydration can influence urine concentration. During a 24-hour collection, maintain your usual fluid intake unless your clinician has given different instructions.
  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