Skip to content

: Butanoate (Butyrate) [Mass Concentration] in Urine by Liquid Chromatography

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

: This test measures the amount of butanoate, also called butyrate, in a urine sample. Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced mainly by gut bacteria and is sometimes measured as part of digestive or metabolic evaluations.

Quick summary

[": The test reports a measured concentration of butyrate in urine, which your clinician interprets alongside your symptoms and other results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78839-8
Short code
JWH-073 butanoate CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
JWH-073 butanoate CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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 Butanoate?

: Butanoate, commonly called butyrate, is a short-chain fatty acid produced when gut bacteria ferment dietary fiber. It is a normal substance in the body and is used as an energy source by cells lining the colon.

: Why Is It Measured?

: Measuring butyrate in urine is uncommon and is generally used in specialized digestive or metabolic assessments. It may help evaluate how well the gut is producing and absorbing short-chain fatty acids, but results are interpreted mainly in context.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A urine sample is collected using standard clean-catch technique into a specified container. Your care team will tell you if any special preparation, timing, or dietary restrictions are needed before collection.

: How the Test Is Performed

: The laboratory uses a chromatographic method, which separates and quantifies chemical compounds in the sample. This allows the amount of butanoate present to be measured accurately.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: Butyrate measurements are not routine and usually form part of a broader clinical workup. Changes in butyrate levels can occur with differences in diet, gut bacterial activity, and certain digestive or metabolic conditions, but a single value is not diagnostic on its own. Your clinician will interpret the result together with other tests and your medical history.

Short name

: Butyrate, Urine

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast or change my diet before this test?
: Fasting and diet instructions vary by laboratory and clinical purpose. Follow the specific preparation your ordering provider or collection site gives you, as fiber intake and other factors may influence butyrate levels.
: What do abnormal butyrate results mean?
: There is no single meaning for an abnormal result. Levels can vary with diet, gut bacteria, and health conditions, so your provider will consider the value alongside your symptoms and other tests rather than acting on this result alone.
: Is this a common test?
: No, urinary butyrate testing is not routine. It is typically ordered in specialized settings, so your provider can explain why it was requested and what the result means for your care.
  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