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Ethanolamine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures ethanolamine relative to creatinine and may help evaluate exposure to ethylene glycol, a toxic antifreeze chemical.

Quick summary

["An elevated urine ethanolamine-to-creatinine ratio may indicate recent exposure to ethylene glycol."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13740-6
Short code
Ethanolamine/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Ethanolamine/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
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 urine test measures ethanolamine, a substance that can increase after exposure to ethylene glycol, and compares it with urine creatinine. Creatinine is used to account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This is a specialized test that may be ordered when ethylene glycol exposure is suspected, particularly after ingesting antifreeze or when symptoms suggest poisoning. It may also be used to follow ethylene glycol levels during treatment.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The laboratory measures ethanolamine and creatinine in the sample and reports their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician, including whether a first-morning or timed urine sample is required. Fasting is generally not required, but tell the laboratory and clinician about any antifreeze or ethylene glycol exposure and about the time it occurred.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Ethanolamine-to-Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What is ethylene glycol?
Ethylene glycol is a toxic chemical used in some antifreeze and other industrial products. Ingestion can cause serious illness, including metabolic and kidney problems.
Does an elevated result confirm ethylene glycol poisoning?
No. A raised ethanolamine-to-creatinine ratio can support a diagnosis of exposure, but it must be interpreted with the exposure history, symptoms, and other tests.
What should I do if I suspect antifreeze poisoning?
Seek emergency medical care immediately or contact Poison Control. Do not wait for this laboratory result before obtaining urgent care, especially if symptoms such as vomiting, unusual sleepiness, breathing difficulty, or reduced urination occur.
  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