Lactate-to-Creatinine Ratio
Measures lactate relative to creatinine in the same patient sample. The ratio can provide context for interpreting lactate levels.
["This test compares the amount of lactate with the amount of creatinine in a sample, but the result must be interpreted alongside the test type and your clinical condition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13767-9
- Short code
- Lactate/Creat Ur
- Synonyms
- Lactate/Creat Ur
- Category
- kidney
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- — – 4 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?
A lactate-to-creatinine ratio compares the concentration of lactate with the concentration of creatinine in the same specimen. Creatinine serves as a reference measurement that can help show the relative amount of lactate.
Why might I need this test?
This ratio may be ordered to help interpret lactate levels in context. Depending on the specimen and clinical situation, it can account for differences in sample concentration or help evaluate how the body handles lactate and creatinine.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory measures lactate and creatinine in the submitted specimen and calculates their ratio. The specimen type and collection method are confirmed from the order because they affect how the result should be interpreted.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the collection instructions provided with your order. If a urine sample is required, collect it in the designated container and include the collection time when requested; fasting is generally unnecessary unless your clinician specifically directs it.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An elevated or decreased ratio may reflect changes in lactate, creatinine, or both. Depending on the specimen, this can be associated with altered metabolic activity, hydration, kidney function, or other clinical factors. The result should be reviewed with the individual laboratory reference interval and your healthcare professional rather than interpreted on its own.
Short name
Lactate/Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
What does the lactate-to-creatinine ratio show?
Why are lactate and creatinine measured together?
Does an abnormal ratio identify one specific condition?
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