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Glyoxylate-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures glyoxylate relative to creatinine, helping evaluate conditions that may affect glyoxylate metabolism and urinary oxalate production.

Quick summary

["This test measures urinary glyoxylate in relation to creatinine to help assess possible inherited metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13752-1
Short code
Glyoxylate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Glyoxylate/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?

Glyoxylate is a substance formed during metabolism. This urine test measures glyoxylate relative to creatinine, a substance commonly used to account for how concentrated or dilute a urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used in the evaluation of unusual calcium oxalate kidney stones or suspected inherited disorders of metabolism, including forms of primary hyperoxaluria. It is generally interpreted by a clinician along with other urine and blood tests.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The glyoxylate result is compared with the creatinine level from the same sample to provide a ratio that helps account for urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but collection instructions can vary by laboratory. Follow the directions provided for a single urine sample or a timed collection, and tell your clinician about any relevant medications, supplements, or metabolic testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated glyoxylate-to-creatinine ratio may indicate increased production or reduced breakdown of glyoxylate. This can occur with certain inherited metabolic disorders, particularly those associated with excess urinary oxalate and calcium oxalate stones. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, kidney findings, and other laboratory tests because diet, medications, and urine concentration can also affect the result.

Short name

Urine glyoxylate-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose primary hyperoxaluria on its own?
No. An abnormal result may prompt additional urine, blood, and genetic testing to identify the specific cause.
Why is creatinine included in the test?
Creatinine helps account for variations in urine concentration. Comparing glyoxylate with creatinine makes results easier to compare across samples.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary, but follow the laboratory's collection instructions. The type and timing of urine collection can affect how the result is interpreted.
  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