Skip to content

p-Cresol/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures p-cresol, a bacterial breakdown product, relative to urine creatinine. It may help assess p-cresol excretion in relation to diet and kidney function.

Quick summary

["The test estimates how much p-cresol is being excreted while accounting for differences in urine concentration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79507-0
Short code
p-Cresol/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
p-Cresol/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 p-cresol in urine and compares it with urine creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference to help account for variations in how concentrated a urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

p-Cresol is produced by certain bacteria in the intestine and is studied as a potential toxin that can accumulate in people with reduced kidney function. Your clinician may use this test alongside kidney function tests, diet information, and other findings.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory for p-cresol and creatinine. The results may be reported as concentrations or as a p-cresol-to-creatinine ratio, depending on the laboratory.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about urine collection. Usually, a spot urine sample is collected in a clean container; fasting is generally not required unless your clinician specifically requests it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine p-Cresol/Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does p-cresol measure?
It measures the amount of p-cresol, a compound produced by intestinal bacteria, that is present in urine.
Why is creatinine included in the test?
Urine creatinine helps show how concentrated the sample is, allowing p-cresol to be interpreted more accurately across different urine samples.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a condition?
No. An abnormal result can have several causes and should be reviewed with your clinician along with your medical history and other tests.
  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