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Levulinate-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures levulinate relative to creatinine, helping account for how concentrated or dilute the urine sample is.

Quick summary

["The result is interpreted with symptoms and other laboratory tests to assess levulinate production and excretion."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79504-7
Short code
Levulinate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Levulinate/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 levulinate, also called levulinic acid, in urine and compares it with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because its urine level varies with urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of unusual symptoms or suspected changes in metabolism. The result may help assess how much levulinate is being produced and excreted by the body.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The laboratory measures levulinate and creatinine and then calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. This may involve a first-morning or timed urine collection, and a clean-catch container may be required. Do not fast or restrict fluids unless specifically instructed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine levulinate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the levulinate-to-creatinine ratio show?
It shows the amount of urinary levulinate relative to creatinine, which helps reduce the effect of differences in urine concentration.
Is this the same as a routine urine creatinine test?
No. A routine creatinine test measures creatinine alone, while this test calculates a ratio involving urinary levulinate and creatinine.
Does an abnormal result confirm a specific disease?
No. The result must be interpreted by a clinician using your medical history, symptoms, and other test results.
  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