Homocarnosine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine
This urine test measures homocarnosine relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration.
["The result helps identify increased urinary homocarnosine and is usually interpreted by a specialist."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79632-6
- Short code
- Homocarnosine/Creat Ur-sRto
- Synonyms
- Homocarnosine/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?
Homocarnosine is a small molecule related to the amino acid histidine. This test measures the amount of homocarnosine in urine compared with the amount of creatinine, which is used to help account for how concentrated the urine is.
Why might I need this test?
This test is generally used in the evaluation of unusual metabolic or inherited conditions, particularly when a clinician is investigating abnormal urinary excretion of homocarnosine. It is not a routine general health screening test.
How is the test performed?
A urine sample is analyzed to determine the amounts of homocarnosine and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the homocarnosine-to-creatinine ratio. The sample may be a single urine collection or a timed collection, depending on the instructions provided by the ordering clinician.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the collection instructions exactly, including whether all urine collected during a specified period must be submitted. Use the sterile container provided and tell the laboratory if you are taking medicines, supplements, or receiving treatment that could affect the result.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An elevated ratio may indicate increased urinary excretion of homocarnosine, which can occur in certain rare inherited metabolic disorders. A low ratio is less commonly used and may be affected by urine collection or dilution. Results should be interpreted with the urine concentration, other laboratory findings, symptoms, and medical history rather than alone.
Short name
Urine homocarnosine-to-creatinine ratio
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine creatinine urine test?
Does a high result confirm a genetic disorder?
Why might urine concentration 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