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Pentacarboxylate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures urinary pentacarboxylate relative to creatinine, helping assess the excretion of this organic-acid metabolite while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This urine test evaluates pentacarboxylate excretion and may help identify abnormalities in organic-acid metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45317-5
Short code
Pentacarboxylate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Pentacarboxylate/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 pentacarboxylate, a metabolite, in urine and compares its amount with urine creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine concentration can vary from sample to sample.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating unusual metabolite excretion, suspected abnormalities in organic-acid metabolism, or the effects of certain medications. The result is interpreted together with symptoms, other laboratory tests, and relevant treatments.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the pentacarboxylate and creatinine amounts. The laboratory then calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Some tests require a first-morning or timed urine collection, and medications or supplements may need to be discussed before collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine pentacarboxylate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the pentacarboxylate/creatinine ratio measure?
It measures the relative amount of pentacarboxylate compared with creatinine in urine. The ratio helps reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.
Is this the same as a urine creatinine test?
No. A standard urine creatinine test measures creatinine alone, while this test calculates a ratio using pentacarboxylate and creatinine.
Do I need to collect a 24-hour urine sample?
The collection format depends on the laboratory's test instructions. Ask your clinician whether a spot, first-morning, or timed urine collection is required.
  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