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Oligosaccharides/Creatinine, Urine — Mass Ratio

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

Measures urine oligosaccharides relative to creatinine to evaluate urinary carbohydrate patterns and help screen for certain inherited metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps identify unusual carbohydrate patterns that may suggest an inherited metabolic disorder."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48147-3
Short code
Oligosaccharide/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Oligosaccharide/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 oligosaccharides, which are small chains of sugars, in urine. The result is compared with the amount of creatinine in the same urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used when symptoms suggest an inherited disorder affecting how the body processes carbohydrates or stores complex sugars. Results can help guide further specialized testing.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested to identify and measure oligosaccharides. Dividing by or comparing with the urine creatinine level helps account for differences in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions for urine collection, including whether a first-morning or timed sample is needed. No special diet or fasting is usually required unless your clinician specifically directs you otherwise.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal result may indicate that unusual amounts or patterns of small carbohydrates are being excreted in the urine. This can occur with certain inherited metabolic or lysosomal storage disorders, but urine results alone usually do not establish a diagnosis.

Short name

Urine Oligosaccharides/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a specific genetic disorder?
No. It can suggest that further evaluation is needed, but a diagnosis usually requires clinical findings and confirmatory genetic, enzyme, or other specialized testing.
Why is creatinine included in the test?
Creatinine is used to help adjust the oligosaccharide result for how concentrated the urine is. This makes results more comparable between samples.
Does an abnormal result always mean someone has a metabolic disorder?
No. Abnormally elevated or reduced values can have several causes, and the result must be interpreted alongside symptoms, medications, diet, and other tests by a qualified clinician.
  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