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Glycolate in Urine (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of glycolate, a chemical produced when certain foods break down in your body, specifically in your urine. It may be used to help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess how your body processes certain metabolic pathways, particularly in conditions like mitochondrial disorders or inherited metabolic diseases."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25106-6
Short code
Glycolate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Glycolate/Creat Ur-sRto
Category
glucose
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or neurological issues that could be linked to metabolic disorders. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions such as methylmalonic acidemia or other inborn errors of metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed for this urine test. You may be asked to collect a random urine sample or a 24-hour urine sample, depending on the test protocol. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

You will provide a urine sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure glycolate levels. The test may involve specialized techniques like chromatography or immunoassay to detect and quantify the chemical.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to reference ranges specific to the test method used. Elevated levels of glycolate in urine may suggest metabolic abnormalities, while normal levels do not indicate a diagnosis of metabolic disorders but do not rule them out entirely.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Glycolate Test

Frequently asked questions

How often should I have this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your medical condition and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. If you have a known metabolic disorder, they may schedule regular follow-ups to monitor changes in your glycolate levels. If this is a one-time test for diagnostic purposes, it may not require repeat testing unless further evaluation is needed.
What are the possible causes of abnormal results?
Abnormally high glycolate levels in urine may be associated with certain metabolic disorders, such as defects in the metabolism of glycine or other amino acids. It can also be influenced by certain medications or dietary factors. Always discuss any concerns or abnormal results with your healthcare provider to explore potential causes and next steps.
Can diet affect the results of this test?
Yes, diet can influence glycolate levels. Foods high in glycine, such as gelatin, some vegetables, and certain processed foods, may temporarily increase glycolate production. If your test is part of a metabolic evaluation, your healthcare provider may recommend dietary adjustments or fasting to help standardize 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