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Malonate-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine and Stool

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

Measures the relative amount of malonate compared with creatinine in a urine or stool sample, which may help evaluate increased malonate excretion.

Quick summary

["This test compares malonate with creatinine to help assess malonate excretion, but an abnormal result alone does not identify the cause."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47696-0
Short code
Malonate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Malonate/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 malonate relative to creatinine in a urine or stool specimen. The ratio can help show whether the amount of malonate is higher than expected after accounting for the amount of creatinine in the sample.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest a possible metabolic or mitochondrial disorder, or when another test has found an unusual amount of malonate. It is generally used together with symptoms, diet, medication history, and other laboratory results.

How is the test performed?

A urine or stool sample is collected as directed by the healthcare provider. The laboratory measures malonate and creatinine and calculates their ratio. The type and timing of collection, such as a first-morning or timed urine sample, depend on the instructions provided with the order.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required unless your clinician gives different instructions. Follow the specimen-collection directions carefully, and tell the healthcare provider about antibiotics, supplements, recent dietary changes, and any medicines you take.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Malonate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does a high malonate-to-creatinine ratio diagnose a metabolic disorder?
No. An elevated result can have several causes and is usually interpreted alongside symptoms, other laboratory findings, diet, and medication use.
Why is creatinine included in this test?
Creatinine is used as a comparison measure. Dividing malonate by creatinine helps account for differences in sample concentration, although creatinine levels themselves can vary.
Can diet or medicines affect the result?
Yes. Certain foods, supplements, and antibiotics may affect the amount of malonate or the metabolic pathways involved. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.
  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