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Urine Glutamate-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures urine glutamate relative to creatinine to account for differences in urine concentration. It may help evaluate glutamate excretion.

Quick summary

["This urine test measures how much glutamate is being excreted relative to creatinine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30059-0
Short code
Glutamate/Creat Ur-Rto
Synonyms
Glutamate/Creat Ur-Rto
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 glutamate in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine output and concentration can vary.

Why might I need this test?

A urine glutamate-to-creatinine ratio may be used to assess glutamate excretion or support evaluation of a suspected metabolic condition. Your clinician will determine why the test is appropriate for you.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in a laboratory for glutamate and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the ratio. The urine collection method and timing depend on your healthcare provider's instructions.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided with the test order, including whether a first-morning, random, or timed urine sample is needed. Tell your clinician about supplements, medications, or special diets that may contain glutamate, because they can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Glutamate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is creatinine included in this urine test?
Creatinine is used to help account for variations in urine concentration. Dividing glutamate by creatinine makes the result easier to compare between samples.
Can supplements or diet affect the result?
Yes. Glutamate-containing foods, protein supplements, and other supplements may influence urinary glutamate levels. Inform your clinician about these products before the test.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a metabolic disorder?
No. An abnormal ratio alone is not diagnostic and must be reviewed with your symptoms, medical history, and other test results 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