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Glutaconate-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures glutaconate relative to creatinine, helping account for variations in urine concentration when evaluating metabolite excretion.

Quick summary

["This ratio measures urinary glutaconate in a way that helps reduce the influence of urine concentration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13745-5
Short code
Glutaconate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Glutaconate/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 the amount of glutaconate, a metabolic byproduct, in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because its level in urine varies with urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate unusual metabolite excretion, particularly in people with suspected metabolic or inherited disorders. It is usually interpreted with other laboratory findings, symptoms, and genetic or imaging results.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed for glutaconate and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the glutaconate-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine-collection instructions, including whether a first-morning or timed specimen is required. Fasting is generally not needed unless your clinician specifically requests it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated ratio may indicate increased urinary excretion of glutaconate and can occur in certain metabolic disorders. Results are not diagnostic by themselves and must be interpreted alongside kidney function, urine collection quality, symptoms, and other tests.

Short name

Urinary Glutaconate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the glutaconate-to-creatinine ratio show?
It shows how much glutaconate is present in urine relative to creatinine. This comparison helps reduce the effect of differences in urine concentration.
Does an abnormal result confirm a metabolic disorder?
No. An abnormal result may prompt additional testing, but it must be interpreted with your symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory findings.
What type of urine sample is needed?
The required collection method depends on the laboratory. It may be a first-morning, random, or timed urine specimen, so follow the instructions provided by the testing 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