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Glutamine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures glutamine relative to creatinine, which helps evaluate urinary glutamine excretion.

Quick summary

["This ratio shows how much glutamine is being lost in the urine compared with creatinine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30056-6
Short code
Glutamine/Creat Ur-Rto
Synonyms
Glutamine/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 glutamine in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference marker to help account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating a suspected metabolic disorder, especially when there is unexplained vomiting, poor growth, muscle weakness, or other signs that may be related to how the body handles amino acids.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested in a laboratory. The laboratory measures glutamine and creatinine in the sample and calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Unless you are told otherwise, collect urine in the specified container at the specified time and record the collection time; fasting is usually not required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A low or high urine glutamine-to-creatinine ratio may indicate altered handling or excretion of glutamine. Results are interpreted with symptoms, diet, medications, other laboratory tests, and sometimes a 24-hour urine collection. A ratio alone does not establish a specific diagnosis.

Short name

Urine glutamine/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the urine glutamine/creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of glutamine in urine with the amount of creatinine. This can help evaluate urinary glutamine excretion while reducing the effect of urine dilution.
Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting is usually not required, but your clinician may give specific dietary and collection instructions. Follow the instructions provided with the urine test order.
What if the result is abnormal?
An abnormal result may reflect an amino acid metabolism disorder or other factors affecting kidney excretion, diet, or medications. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your medical history and other test results.
  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