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Hexacarboxylate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A specialized urine test that measures hexacarboxylate relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["The result shows how much hexacarboxylate is present in the urine relative to creatinine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45316-7
Short code
Hexacarboxylate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Hexacarboxylate/Creat Ur-sRto
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 hexacarboxylate, a porphyrin-related substance, in urine. The result is compared with the urine creatinine level, which helps account for how concentrated or dilute the urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

This specialized test may be included in an evaluation of unusual porphyrin or other metabolic findings. It is generally interpreted by a clinician alongside symptoms, medication use, and other laboratory results.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The hexacarboxylate amount is compared with the creatinine amount in the same sample. Your clinician will tell you whether a single urine collection or a timed collection is needed.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, including any timing and storage requirements. If a 24-hour collection is requested, collect all urine for the full period as directed. Fasting is not usually required unless your clinician gives different instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine hexacarboxylate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is the result divided by creatinine?
Creatinine is used to help adjust for the fact that urine may be more or less concentrated at different times. This makes the hexacarboxylate result easier to compare across samples.
Does this test require a 24-hour urine collection?
Not always. Depending on the order, the laboratory may request a single urine sample or a timed collection, so confirm the instructions before collecting urine.
Can medicines or diet affect the result?
They may, particularly if they affect porphyrin metabolism or the amount of hexacarboxylate excreted. Tell your clinician about medicines, supplements, and major dietary or alcohol changes.
  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