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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Urine — Substance Concentration

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

A urine test that measures alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid involved in protein metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test evaluates urinary alpha-aminobutyric acid and may help assess certain disorders of amino acid metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27341-7
Short code
A-Aminobutyr Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr Ur-sCnc
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 alpha-aminobutyric acid in urine. Alpha-aminobutyric acid is a nonessential amino acid formed during protein metabolism.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to help evaluate unusual amino acid metabolism, especially when symptoms or other laboratory findings suggest an inherited metabolic disorder. It may also be used alongside genetic testing, blood tests, and other urine measurements.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine its alpha-aminobutyric acid concentration. Your clinician will explain whether a single urine sample or a timed collection is needed.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about urine collection. Unless specifically told otherwise, maintain your usual diet and fluid intake, and do not begin or stop medications without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal urine result may indicate altered amino acid metabolism, including certain inherited metabolic conditions. Results can also be influenced by diet, illness, medications, or collection timing, so they should be interpreted with symptoms and other laboratory findings rather than alone.

Short name

Urinary alpha-aminobutyric acid

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an alpha-amino acid blood test?
No. This test specifically measures alpha-aminobutyric acid in urine, while other amino acid tests may measure different substances or use a blood sample.
Does an abnormal result confirm a genetic disorder?
No. An abnormal result can guide further evaluation, but diagnosis generally requires additional laboratory testing, clinical assessment, and sometimes genetic testing.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is not ordinarily required, but dietary restrictions may be part of a broader metabolic evaluation. Follow the specific instructions provided by 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