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Glutarate/Creatinine Ratio, 24-Hour Urine

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

Measures glutarate relative to creatinine in a 24-hour urine collection to help evaluate organic acid metabolism.

Quick summary

["This specialized urine test can help identify increased glutarate excretion, which may occur with certain metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44364-8
Short code
Glutarate/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Glutarate/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
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 glutarate, an organic acid, in urine collected over 24 hours. The result is compared with the amount of creatinine in the same collection, which helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when a clinician is investigating suspected glutaric acidemia or another disorder of organic acid metabolism. It can also be used to follow glutarate excretion over time.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine into a designated container for 24 hours. The laboratory measures glutarate and creatinine and may provide a glutarate-to-creatinine ratio or another method-specific interpretation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, including how to start, store the urine, and record the total volume. Do not fast or change your diet unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Glutarate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is creatinine measured with glutarate?
Creatinine is used to help account for how concentrated the urine is. Comparing glutarate with creatinine can make the result more useful than measuring glutarate alone.
How do I collect a 24-hour urine sample?
Usually, you empty your bladder at the start of the collection period and then collect every subsequent urine sample for exactly 24 hours. Include the final void and follow the laboratory's instructions for storage and recording the total volume.
Does an abnormal result confirm a metabolic disorder?
No. An elevated result may warrant further testing because diet, medications, kidney function, and collection errors can also affect it. Your clinician will interpret it with your symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory findings.
  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