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Homocysteine, Urine — Screen

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

A urine screening test used to detect elevated homocysteine, which may be associated with inherited metabolic disorders or vitamin deficiencies.

Quick summary

["This urine screen can identify unusually high homocysteine levels that may need further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13758-8
Short code
Hcys/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Hcys/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?

Homocysteine is an amino acid made when the body processes methionine, another amino acid found in food. This test checks a urine sample for an abnormal amount of homocysteine.

Why might I need this test?

Urine homocysteine screening may be used when symptoms or family history suggest an inherited problem with methionine metabolism, particularly in children. It may also help evaluate unusual homocysteine levels in people with nutritional deficiencies or certain medical conditions.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample, which the laboratory analyzes for homocysteine. Because this is a screening test, an abnormal result is generally followed by confirmatory testing and clinical evaluation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and tell the healthcare team about any vitamin supplements, medicines, or pregnancy. A first-morning urine sample may be requested, and special restrictions should be followed if the clinician provides them.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated urine homocysteine may occur with inherited disorders of methionine metabolism, deficiency of folate, vitamin B12, or vitamin B6, or with impaired kidney function. Results must be interpreted with symptoms, diet, medications, and other laboratory findings because a screening result alone does not establish a diagnosis.

Short name

Urine homocysteine screen

Frequently asked questions

Does an abnormal result mean I have a genetic disorder?
No. An abnormal screen can have several causes and does not by itself confirm a genetic disorder. Confirmatory testing and evaluation by a healthcare professional are usually needed.
Can vitamins or medicines affect the result?
Yes. Folate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and certain medicines may affect homocysteine levels. Tell the healthcare team about supplements, prescription medicines, and pregnancy.
How is a urine sample collected?
The sample is usually collected in a sterile container using the clean-catch method or as directed by the laboratory. Follow the provided instructions carefully and note the collection time if requested.
  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