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Myristoleate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures urine myristoleate relative to creatinine, helping evaluate abnormal fatty acid metabolism.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help identify possible abnormalities in fatty acid processing when interpreted with other clinical and laboratory findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54341-3
Short code
Myristoleate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Myristoleate/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 myristoleate, a fatty acid, in urine and compares its amount with urine creatinine. The ratio helps account for variations in how concentrated a urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used when a clinician is evaluating a possible disorder of fatty acid or energy metabolism, particularly in an infant or child with unexplained symptoms. It is often interpreted alongside other metabolic tests.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The laboratory measures myristoleate and creatinine and calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory, including whether a random or timed urine specimen is required. No special diet or fasting is generally specified unless your clinician gives different instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated ratio may indicate abnormal fatty acid metabolism and can be associated with inherited disorders affecting energy production. Results should be interpreted with age, symptoms, diet, medication use, and confirmatory testing because an isolated abnormal value does not establish a diagnosis.

Short name

Urine Myristoleate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a metabolic disorder?
Not by itself. The result is one laboratory marker and usually needs to be reviewed with symptoms, medical history, and additional metabolic tests.
Why is creatinine included in the test?
Urine concentration can vary from one sample to another. Comparing myristoleate with creatinine helps reduce the effect of differences in urine concentration.
Can this test be performed during routine newborn screening?
Newborn screening methods vary by location and may use blood-based testing rather than this urine ratio. Ask your child's clinician which screening pathway applies.
  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