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Methylsuccinate and Creatinine, Urine

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

A specialized urine test that measures methylsuccinate and creatinine. It may be used during evaluation of certain rare inherited metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

["This test measures a metabolic marker in urine and may help investigate certain inherited enzyme disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13777-8
Short code
Me-succinate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Me-succinate/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 methylsuccinate, a substance involved in cellular metabolism, along with creatinine in a urine sample. Creatinine is commonly included to help account for how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

This specialized test may be ordered when symptoms or other laboratory findings suggest a rare inherited problem with metabolism. It is generally part of a broader evaluation rather than a routine screening test.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in the laboratory to determine the amount of methylsuccinate and creatinine. Depending on the test, the results may be reported separately or as a ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. A fresh or first-morning urine sample may be requested, or urine may need to be collected for a full 24-hour period.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated urinary methylsuccinate level may be associated with certain rare inherited disorders of metabolism, particularly disorders involving methylmalonyl and fumarate-related pathways. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, other laboratory tests, and sometimes specialized genetic or enzyme testing.

Short name

Urine methylsuccinate test

Frequently asked questions

Is this a routine urine test?
No. It is a specialized biochemical test usually ordered when a metabolic disorder is being investigated.
Why is creatinine measured at the same time?
Urine concentration can vary widely. Creatinine may be used to help determine the methylsuccinate result relative to the amount of creatinine in the sample.
Does an abnormal result confirm a genetic disorder?
No. An abnormal result can guide further evaluation, but it usually must be interpreted with other laboratory findings and clinical information.
  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