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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Urine — Qualitative

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

A urine test that checks whether alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, is present.

Quick summary

["This test screens a urine sample for alpha-aminobutyric acid and may help evaluate amino acid metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16345-1
Short code
A-Aminobutyr Ur Ql
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr 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 qualitative urine test checks for alpha-aminobutyric acid, one of the amino acids used by the body to make proteins. The result is generally reported as detected or not detected.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used as part of an evaluation of unusual symptoms that could relate to an inherited problem with amino acid metabolism. It may also be included in certain nutritional or metabolic assessments.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine whether alpha-aminobutyric acid is present. Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and label the container with the required information.

How do I prepare for the test?

For a routine urine test, a clean-catch sample is usually requested. Your clinician or laboratory may give specific instructions about timing or fasting, so check with them before collecting the sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine alpha-aminobutyric acid

Frequently asked questions

Does a detected result mean I have a disease?
No. Alpha-aminobutyric acid can be detected for a variety of reasons, and the result must be interpreted alongside the rest of your medical evaluation.
Is this the same as a standard urine protein test?
No. This test looks specifically for a type of amino acid rather than measuring overall protein in the urine.
Do I need to fast before the test?
Fasting is not always required, but diet can affect the result. Follow any fasting or timing instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
  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