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Hypoxanthine/Creatinine [Mass Ratio], Urine

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

A urine test that measures hypoxanthine relative to creatinine, helping assess purine metabolism while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This ratio can help identify increased purine breakdown or disorders of purine metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38366-1
Short code
Hypoxanthine/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Hypoxanthine/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 the amount of hypoxanthine, a natural product of purine breakdown, relative to creatinine in a urine sample. The ratio helps reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to evaluate increased purine production or an inherited disorder of purine metabolism. It is sometimes considered alongside symptoms, family history, and other laboratory findings when evaluating excessive uric acid production.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. Hypoxanthine and creatinine are measured, and their values are used to calculate the hypoxanthine-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any urine-collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional, including whether a first-morning or timed collection is required. Drink fluids normally unless your clinician advises otherwise.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine hypoxanthine-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the ratio measure?
It compares urine hypoxanthine with urine creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine concentration can vary substantially.
What conditions may cause an elevated result?
Possible causes include increased purine production, excess uric acid production, and inherited disorders of purine metabolism. A healthcare professional can interpret the result in your clinical context.
Does an abnormal result confirm a diagnosis?
No. This test usually supports evaluation rather than establishing a diagnosis by itself and may need to be combined with other tests and clinical findings.
  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