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Urine Linoleate-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test comparing linoleate, an essential fatty acid, with creatinine to account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This ratio helps evaluate urinary linoleate levels in relation to creatinine, but results are nonspecific and require clinical interpretation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47686-1
Short code
Linoleate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Linoleate/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 linoleate in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is a muscle waste product commonly used to adjust urine measurements for how concentrated or dilute the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of fatty acid intake, absorption, or metabolism. It may also be used in specialized nutritional or metabolic assessments.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The laboratory measures linoleate and creatinine and calculates the ratio of one to the other.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for a routine urine sample, but follow your clinician's collection instructions. Tell the laboratory if you take nutritional supplements, use infant formula, or have recently changed your diet, because these may affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine linoleate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is the urine linoleate-to-creatinine ratio the same as a standard urine lipid test?
No. It specifically measures linoleate relative to creatinine rather than the total amount of fat or lipid in the urine.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Urine concentration can vary from person to person and from sample to sample. Creatinine provides a comparison value that helps reduce the effect of urine dilution.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific condition?
No. The ratio can be affected by diet, hydration, kidney function, supplements, and other factors, so your clinician must interpret it with your overall clinical picture.
  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