Hexanoylglycine, Urine
This test measures the amount of hexanoylglycine, a fatty acid byproduct, in a urine sample. It is used to help evaluate certain inherited metabolic disorders that affect how the body breaks down fats.
["Hexanoylglycine in urine can be a marker of specific fatty acid oxidation disorders, so it is usually interpreted alongside other test results and clinical findings."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13753-9
- Short code
- Hexanoylgly/Creat Ur
- Synonyms
- Hexanoylgly/Creat Ur
- 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
What Is Being Measured
Hexanoylglycine is a medium-chain acylglycine, a substance formed when the body processes certain fatty acids. Normally it is present only in very small amounts. When specific enzymes needed for fat breakdown do not work properly, hexanoylglycine can build up and appear in the urine.
Why the Test Is Ordered
A healthcare provider may order this test when a person has symptoms suggesting a fatty acid oxidation disorder, such as low blood sugar, muscle weakness, or unexplained tiredness, especially during fasting or illness. It may also be part of follow-up testing for a known or suspected metabolic condition.
How the Sample Is Collected
The test uses a urine sample, typically collected in a clean container at a lab or clinic. In some cases a provider may ask for a first-morning sample or a timed collection. Follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or laboratory.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by a healthcare provider along with other tests, symptoms, and family history. An abnormal level does not by itself confirm a diagnosis, and a normal level does not always rule one out. Because reference ranges vary by laboratory, the range printed on your report is the one to use.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Hexanoylglycine is a biochemical marker associated with disorders of fatty acid oxidation, including certain medium-chain and related metabolic defects. Its measurement supports diagnosis and monitoring but is not a stand-alone diagnostic test; results should be integrated with acylcarnitine profiles, other organic acid testing, genetic testing, and clinical evaluation by a metabolic specialist.
Frequently asked questions
Does an abnormal hexanoylglycine result mean I definitely have a metabolic disorder?
Do I need to fast before this urine test?
Can medicines or diet affect the result?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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