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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, 24-Hour Urine — Qualitative

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

A 24-hour urine test that checks whether alpha-aminobutyric acid, a type of amino acid, is present in the urine.

Quick summary

["This test assesses urinary excretion of alpha-aminobutyric acid to help evaluate amino acid handling and metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26794-8
Short code
A-Aminobutyr 24h Ur Ql
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr 24h Ur Ql
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 alpha-aminobutyric acid in urine collected over 24 hours. Alpha-aminobutyric acid is one of the building blocks, or amino acids, that make up proteins.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to investigate unusual amino acid levels or symptoms that suggest a problem with metabolism, intestinal absorption, or kidney processing. It is generally interpreted alongside other laboratory and medical findings.

How is the test performed?

Urine is collected for a full 24-hour period and then sent to the laboratory for analysis. The result indicates whether alpha-aminobutyric acid was detected and may include an interpretation of the urinary pattern.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's instructions for the 24-hour collection, including recording the start and end times. Keep the container refrigerated if instructed, bring the full collection to the laboratory, and ask your clinician before changing your diet or medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
A timed collection measures the amount of a substance excreted throughout a full day, which can be more informative than a single urine sample. Your laboratory should provide specific collection instructions.
Does this test detect all amino acid disorders?
No. It evaluates alpha-aminobutyric acid only, so other amino acids and additional tests may be needed if a metabolic disorder is suspected.
Can medications or diet affect the result?
Yes. Protein intake, supplements, medications, and hydration can influence urinary amino acid levels. Do not stop prescribed medicines without first discussing the change with your clinician.
  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