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Aniline in urine (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of aniline, a chemical compound, present in your urine. Aniline can be produced during the breakdown of certain drugs or as a result of liver metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess liver function and detect potential exposure to harmful chemicals or medications."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35590-9
Short code
ANILU
Synonyms
Aniline Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Clean, sterile urine collection container; amber-colored container preferred to protect from light degradation
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
CPT
82542
SNOMED
440330005
Specimen volume
20-50 mL of random or end-of-shift urine
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for up to 30 days; protect from light
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like liver issues (such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain), if you’ve been exposed to certain chemicals, or if you’re taking medications that metabolize into aniline. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for metabolic disorders or drug-related liver toxicity.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to collect a 24-hour urine sample. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What the Test Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels of aniline in urine may suggest liver problems, drug metabolism issues, or exposure to toxins. Lower levels may indicate normal metabolism or absence of recent exposure. Results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated aniline levels can occur due to liver disease, certain medications (like phenacetin or other drugs metabolized through the liver), or exposure to industrial chemicals. Rarely, it may be linked to genetic metabolic disorders.

Reference range

Aniline is not normally detected in urine of unexposed individuals. Reference values for occupationally exposed populations should be established by the performing laboratory. Results are typically reported as not detected or below the limit of quantification.N/A

Specimen: urine

No fasting required. Avoid occupational or environmental exposure to aniline and related aromatic amines for at least 24 hours prior to collection when monitoring for baseline levels. Collect sample at end of shift for occupational exposure monitoring.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated aniline in urine can signal impaired liver function, drug-related toxicity, or metabolic abnormalities. This test is less commonly used today but may still be part of specialized evaluations for liver disease, drug monitoring, or occupational health assessments. Always discuss results with your provider to determine next steps.

Short name

Aniline Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated aniline level indicate?
An elevated aniline level may suggest liver dysfunction, exposure to certain chemicals, or the breakdown of specific medications. Your provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to understand the cause.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
While diet alone is unlikely to affect aniline levels, certain medications metabolized in the liver (such as phenacetin or some pain relievers) may influence results. Always inform your provider about all medications you’re taking.
How often is this test performed?
This test is relatively rare and typically performed only in specialized clinical settings, such as toxicology evaluations, occupational health assessments, or research studies. Your provider will determine if it’s necessary based on your situation.
  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