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Phenol/Creatinine [Mass Ratio], Urine

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

A urine test that measures phenol relative to creatinine, helping account for urine concentration when evaluating exposure to phenol or benzene.

Quick summary

["An elevated result may indicate recent exposure to phenol or benzene, but the result must be interpreted with the person's work history and health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110364-7
Short code
Phenol/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Phenol/Creat Msmt 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 test measures the amount of phenol in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product used to help adjust the phenol measurement for how concentrated or dilute the urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used in occupational or toxicology settings to assess possible exposure to phenol or benzene. Benzene is converted in the body to phenol, which can then be detected in urine.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The result reports the amount of urine phenol relative to urine creatinine, helping reduce the effect of changes in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. A spot urine sample or a timed collection may be requested, and avoiding unusual workplace or environmental chemical exposure immediately before collection may be important.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated urine phenol-to-creatinine ratio may indicate recent exposure to phenol or benzene. Interpretation depends on the timing of exposure and may also be influenced by kidney function, diet, medications, and other environmental sources.

Short name

Urine phenol-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated result mean?
It may suggest recent exposure to phenol or benzene, but one result cannot identify the source or severity of exposure. Your clinician will consider symptoms, workplace history, and other laboratory findings.
Why is the result divided by creatinine?
Urine concentration can vary widely. Comparing phenol with creatinine helps reduce the effect of unusually concentrated or dilute urine.
Does this test show how much benzene is in the body?
No. It measures urinary phenol, which can be produced from benzene metabolism as well as from direct phenol exposure, so it does not measure benzene directly.
  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