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Mandelate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures mandelate relative to creatinine, helping assess mandelate excretion while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test evaluates urine mandelate and may help identify abnormalities in phenylalanine metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13001-3
Short code
Mandelate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Mandelate/Creat Ur
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 mandelate, a compound produced during phenylalanine metabolism, in urine. The result is compared with the amount of creatinine in the same sample.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to help evaluate suspected phenylketonuria or another condition that affects how the body processes phenylalanine. It can also help monitor treatment in selected patients.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The laboratory reports the amount of mandelate relative to creatinine, which helps account for differences in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory, including whether a single or timed urine sample is required. Fasting is usually not necessary unless your clinician specifically requests it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine mandelate ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated mandelate result mean?
It may suggest that phenylalanine is being metabolized abnormally, as can occur in phenylketonuria. Other factors, including diet and intestinal bacteria, can also affect the result.
Why is creatinine included in the test?
Creatinine is used as a reference marker for urine concentration. Comparing mandelate with creatinine helps reduce the effect of unusually concentrated or dilute urine.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally not required, but you should follow any specific instructions from your clinician. If a timed collection is ordered, collect urine for the entire period exactly as directed.
  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