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Butyric acid concentration in 24-hour urine

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

This test measures the amount of butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid, found in your urine over a 24-hour period. It may help assess metabolic or digestive issues.

Quick summary

Butyric acid testing helps evaluate gut health and metabolic function.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72778-4
Short code
JWH-073 butanoate Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
JWH-073 butanoate 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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight changes. It can also be part of investigations for metabolic disorders or gastrointestinal conditions.

What Does the Test Involve?

You’ll collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis to determine the total butyric acid levels.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., mg/dL or mmol/L) over the 24-hour period. Interpretation depends on clinical context and may require comparison to reference ranges provided by your lab.

What Does It Mean If Results Are Abnormal?

Elevated levels might suggest issues like short-chain fatty acid metabolism disorders, certain gastrointestinal diseases, or malabsorption problems. Lower levels could indicate metabolic or digestive challenges that need further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Butyric acid is a byproduct of certain gut bacteria activity. Abnormal levels may point to conditions affecting digestion, absorption, or gut microbiome function, guiding treatment plans for metabolic or gastrointestinal disorders.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Butyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need to collect urine for 24 hours?
A 24-hour urine collection provides a more accurate picture of your butyric acid levels by capturing consistent production and excretion over time, rather than just a single sample.
How can I prepare for this test?
Follow your provider’s instructions carefully. Typically, you’ll start collecting urine immediately after waking up the first morning, continuing until you’ve collected all urine for the next 23 hours. Empty your bladder before starting and discard the first void.
Will I need to avoid certain foods or medications?
Some short-chain fatty acids, including butyric acid, are naturally present in foods like vegetables and fermented products. Avoid extreme dietary changes unless advised by your healthcare provider. Some medications may affect results, so discuss this with your provider.
  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