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24-Hour Urine Hydroxyproline/Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures hydroxyproline relative to creatinine in a 24-hour urine collection to assess collagen breakdown and body collagen turnover.

Quick summary

["This test can help evaluate collagen turnover, although abnormal results are not specific to one condition."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13996-4
Short code
OH-Proline/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
OH-Proline/Creat 24h 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?

Hydroxyproline is an amino acid released when collagen breaks down. This test measures hydroxyproline relative to creatinine in urine collected for 24 hours; creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration and collection completeness.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate collagen turnover or investigate conditions involving bone, skin, or other connective tissues. It may also be used to monitor certain treatments, depending on your clinical situation.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine produced during a full 24-hour period. The laboratory measures hydroxyproline and creatinine in the collection and may report their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions exactly, including the start and finish times. Because gelatin and some protein-rich foods or supplements can affect urine hydroxyproline, ask whether dietary restrictions are needed before collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Hydroxyproline

Frequently asked questions

Why is creatinine included in this test?
Creatinine is used to help normalize the urine measurement for differences in concentration and urine output. A ratio can make the hydroxyproline result easier to interpret across collections.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific disease?
No. Urine hydroxyproline is not specific to one condition, so your clinician will consider it alongside symptoms, examination findings, and other tests.
Can I take gelatin or collagen supplements during the test?
Ask your clinician before the collection, because gelatin and collagen products can increase hydroxyproline in urine. Follow any recommended dietary restrictions for the entire collection period.
  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