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Glutarate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine — Turbidimetry, Mass/Mass Ratio

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

Measures glutarate relative to creatinine in urine, helping evaluate increased glutaric acid excretion when a metabolic disorder is suspected.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps identify elevated glutarate excretion and may support evaluation for a glutaric acid metabolism disorder."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110434-8
Short code
Glutarate/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Glutarate/Creat Msmt 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 glutarate, also called glutaric acid, relative to creatinine in a urine sample. Creatinine is used as a reference marker to account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to investigate suspected glutaric acidemia or another inherited metabolic disorder. It can also help assess glutarate excretion during follow-up or monitoring of a diagnosed condition.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed using a turbidimetric laboratory method. The laboratory reports the ratio of glutarate to creatinine as a mass-to-mass ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow your clinician's instructions about the type of urine collection. A spot sample or a timed collection, such as a 24-hour collection, may be requested.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine glutarate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a serum glutarate test?
No. This test measures glutarate in urine and compares it with urine creatinine. A blood or urine test ordered for a different purpose may use a different specimen and interpretation.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Creatinine helps show how concentrated the urine is. Including it makes the glutarate measurement more useful, particularly when comparing it with results from other urine samples.
Does an elevated result mean I have glutaric acidemia?
No. Elevated glutarate excretion can suggest a glutaric acid metabolism disorder, but other causes and collection-related factors may also affect the result. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your symptoms and additional tests.
  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