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Homocysteine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures urine homocysteine relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This urine test reports how much homocysteine is present relative to creatinine, which helps interpret the result."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13759-6
Short code
(Hcys)2/Creat Ur
Synonyms
(Hcys)2/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 homocysteine in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine concentration can vary.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to assess urinary homocysteine when investigating unusual levels of homocysteine or certain inherited disorders of metabolism. It may also be used to monitor treatment.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in the laboratory, and the homocysteine result is compared with the urine creatinine result. The ratio can be calculated from a single urine specimen or a timed collection, depending on the order.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or clinician. If a 24-hour collection is requested, record all urine collected during that period and store it as directed. Do not stop medicines or vitamin supplements without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated ratio may indicate increased urinary homocysteine and can occur with nutritional, kidney-related, or inherited metabolic conditions. Interpretation depends on the urine collection method, kidney function, diet, supplements, and other laboratory results.

Short name

Urine homocysteine/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a blood homocysteine test?
No. This test measures homocysteine in urine, while a blood homocysteine test measures it in the bloodstream. The two tests may provide different information and should be interpreted together when appropriate.
Why is the result divided by creatinine?
Urine can be more or less concentrated at different times. Comparing homocysteine with creatinine helps reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.
Do I need a 24-hour urine collection?
That depends on the order. Some results can be calculated from a single urine specimen, while other measurements require urine collected over 24 hours.
  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