Skip to content

Manganese-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures manganese in urine relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration when evaluating possible manganese exposure.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help assess whether manganese levels may be increased, but results must be interpreted with exposure history and other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42223-8
Short code
Manganese/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Manganese/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 manganese in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a marker of urine concentration, so the ratio can help compare results even when urine is more or less diluted.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered for someone with a possible workplace or environmental exposure to manganese, or when symptoms raise concern about excess exposure. The result is considered together with medical history, exposure information, and other tests.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested in a laboratory to measure manganese and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the manganese-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine-collection instructions, including whether a spot sample or timed collection is required. Tell your clinician and the laboratory about any manganese-containing supplements, medications, or occupational exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated urinary manganese ratio may indicate increased recent exposure, but it does not by itself establish toxicity or a specific diagnosis. Very low levels may occur with limited exposure or other circumstances. Interpretation depends on the collection method, kidney function, exposure history, and clinical findings.

Short name

Urinary Manganese Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the manganese-to-creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the concentration of manganese in urine with the concentration of creatinine. This helps reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.
Does an elevated result mean I have manganese poisoning?
Not necessarily. An elevated result may reflect increased exposure and should be interpreted by a clinician along with your history, symptoms, and other tests.
Can manganese supplements affect the result?
Yes. Supplements or other products containing manganese can raise urine levels, so mention any such products before the test.
  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