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Pentachlorophenol/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures pentachlorophenol relative to urine creatinine to help assess exposure to this industrial chemical and wood preservative.

Quick summary

["An elevated result may indicate recent exposure to pentachlorophenol, but it does not by itself establish toxicity."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26987-8
Short code
Pentachlorophen/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Pentachlorophen/Creat Ur
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 urine test measures pentachlorophenol, a chemical formerly used in wood preservatives and other industrial products. Creatinine is measured at the same time to help account for variations in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to assess exposure in workers who handle pentachlorophenol or products containing it. It may also be considered when symptoms or environmental concerns suggest possible exposure.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The result compares the amount of pentachlorophenol in the urine with the amount of creatinine in the same sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician or workplace testing instructions for collecting the urine sample and its timing. Your clinician will advise whether to avoid work or chemical exposure before collection, because recent exposure can strongly affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Pentachlorophenol

Frequently asked questions

What is pentachlorophenol?
Pentachlorophenol is a toxic organic chemical historically used as a wood preservative, herbicide, and industrial disinfectant. Exposure most commonly occurs in certain occupational settings.
Why is creatinine included in this urine test?
Urine concentration can vary from person to person and throughout the day. Comparing pentachlorophenol with creatinine helps reduce the effect of differences in urine dilution.
Does an elevated result mean I am sick?
Not necessarily. A higher result generally indicates that pentachlorophenol is present in the urine, but illness or poisoning cannot be diagnosed from this test alone.
  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