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Urine Glutarate-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test that measures glutarate relative to creatinine, often used to help evaluate possible fatty-acid metabolism disorders.

Quick summary

["This test helps screen for certain metabolic conditions, particularly medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13748-9
Short code
Glutarate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Glutarate/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 glutarate in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because its level varies with urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used when evaluating symptoms or family histories suggesting a fatty-acid metabolism disorder. It is especially associated with screening for medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, also called MCAD deficiency.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested to determine the relative amounts of glutarate and creatinine. The result is reported as a ratio, so a small urine sample can still be evaluated.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine-collection instructions and tell the clinician about any medicines, supplements, diet changes, or recent illness. The clinician can explain whether fasting or a timed collection is required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Glutarate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine glutarate-to-creatinine ratio measure?
It measures the amount of glutarate in urine relative to creatinine. Creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration.
What condition is this test commonly used to evaluate?
It is commonly used in the evaluation of possible medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, an inherited fatty-acid metabolism disorder.
Does one abnormal result confirm a metabolic disorder?
No. An abnormal result may prompt additional urine or blood tests, genetic testing, and review by a metabolic specialist.
  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