: Glycine to Creatinine Ratio, 24-Hour Urine

: What Is Being Measured

: Glycine is an amino acid, a building block of protein. Creatinine is a waste product produced at a steady rate by muscle and cleared by the kidneys. Comparing glycine to creatinine on a 24-hour urine collection helps account for how concentrated the urine is and how much urine was produced.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: Because this is a 24-hour urine test, you collect all urine you produce over a full 24-hour period in a special container provided by the laboratory. The collection usually starts after the first morning void is discarded and continues through the first void the next morning, following the instructions given to you.

: What the Test May Help Evaluate

: The glycine-to-creatinine ratio can be used to look at amino acid handling by the kidneys and to help investigate certain inherited metabolic disorders or kidney problems that affect how amino acids are processed and excreted.

: What to Expect

: You may need to follow preparation instructions from your healthcare provider, and the collection requires care to avoid missed or extra samples. Discuss any medications, diet, or supplements with your provider because they can affect results.