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Methylhippurates with Creatinine, Urine — Panel

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

A urine test that measures methylhippurates, metabolites associated with exposure to xylene; urine creatinine may be used to account for variation in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["Elevated results can indicate recent exposure to xylene or xylene-containing solvents."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85097-4
Short code
Methylhippurates + creat Pnl Ur
Synonyms
Methylhippurates + creat Pnl Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures methylhippurates, also called methylhippuric acid, in urine. These substances are breakdown products of xylene, a solvent used in industries such as manufacturing, printing, painting, and cleaning.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered for workplace health monitoring, after a suspected solvent exposure, or when evaluating symptoms related to chemical exposure. Results can help assess whether xylene exposure has occurred and whether exposure controls are working.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed for methylhippurates. The sample may also be tested for creatinine, a substance normally found in urine, so the result can be adjusted for differences in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your employer, clinician, or laboratory, including the specified time of day and type of urine collection. Keep the container closed, label it as directed, and tell the laboratory about any recent solvent use or workplace exposure.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Short name

Urine methylhippurates (creatinine-adjusted)

Frequently asked questions

What does a methylhippurate result measure?
It measures the amount of methylhippuric acid, a metabolite formed when the body breaks down xylene, in urine.
Why is urine creatinine included?
Urine can vary from very concentrated to very dilute. Creatinine helps account for this variation so the methylhippurate result can be interpreted more accurately.
Does a high result mean I have been poisoned?
No. A high result generally indicates increased exposure, but it does not by itself diagnose poisoning or predict health effects. A clinician should interpret it with exposure history and symptoms.
  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