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Mandelate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures urinary mandelate relative to creatinine. This test can help assess phenylalanine metabolism and is sometimes used when monitoring a metabolic disorder such as phenylketonuria.

Quick summary

["The result shows how much mandelate is excreted in urine after accounting for urine concentration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47697-8
Short code
Mandelate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Mandelate/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?

Mandelate is a substance related to phenylalanine metabolism. This urine test measures the amount of mandelate relative to creatinine, a marker commonly used to account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to help evaluate or monitor conditions involving phenylalanine metabolism, including phenylketonuria. It is sometimes used along with blood tests and other urine measurements to assess treatment and dietary management.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested for mandelate and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the mandelate-to-creatinine ratio, which helps reduce the effect of variations in urine dilution.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions for urine collection, including whether a single sample or a 24-hour collection is required. Avoid making dietary changes specifically for this test unless your care team tells you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine mandelate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the mandelate/creatinine ratio measure?
It measures the amount of mandelate in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. The ratio helps account for how concentrated or dilute the urine sample is.
Is this the same as a blood phenylalanine test?
No. This test measures mandelate in urine, while a blood phenylalanine test directly measures phenylalanine in the blood. They may be used together but provide different information.
Do I need to collect all of my urine for 24 hours?
That depends on your test order. Some ratios can be calculated from a single urine sample, while others require collection over 24 hours. Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
  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