Skip to content

Ethyl Sulfate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures ethyl sulfate, a metabolite of alcohol, relative to creatinine to help assess recent alcohol exposure.

Quick summary

["An elevated result can indicate recent alcohol exposure, but timing and other laboratory factors affect interpretation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58423-5
Short code
Ethyl sulfate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Ethyl sulfate/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 test measures ethyl sulfate in urine compared with the amount of creatinine in the same sample. Ethyl sulfate is a breakdown product formed when the body metabolizes alcohol, while creatinine is used to help account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used in workplace, legal, or clinical alcohol monitoring to help evaluate recent alcohol exposure. A healthcare professional may also use it when assessing alcohol use in relation to safety, treatment, or recovery.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The ethyl sulfate amount is compared with the creatinine amount to calculate a ratio. Collection may be observed, scheduled, or part of a 24-hour collection, depending on the program and laboratory instructions.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the specific urine collection and timing instructions provided by the laboratory or clinician. Do not change your alcohol intake solely to influence the result; instead, tell the healthcare professional when you last consumed alcohol or other products containing alcohol.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine ethyl sulfate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure how much alcohol I drink?
No. It measures a metabolite of alcohol relative to creatinine, which can help indicate recent exposure but cannot determine the exact amount or time of alcohol consumption.
How soon after drinking does the test become positive?
Detection depends on the laboratory method and the circumstances of collection. Ethyl sulfate generally reflects relatively recent exposure, but no result should be interpreted without the collection time and the laboratory's guidance.
Can I collect this urine test at home?
Collection requirements depend on the reason for testing. Some programs require observed collection or specific timing, so follow the instructions from the laboratory or clinician rather than using a routine or 24-hour collection unless instructed.
  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