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Phenylglyoxylate, Urine (with Creatinine)

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

Measures phenylglyoxylate, a product of phenylalanine metabolism, in urine. Urine creatinine may be used to account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess phenylalanine metabolism, particularly when evaluating or monitoring phenylketonuria (PKU)."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13830-5
Short code
Phenylglyoxylate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Phenylglyoxylate/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 phenylglyoxylate, a substance formed when the body breaks down phenylalanine. It is mainly used in the evaluation and monitoring of phenylketonuria, or PKU.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it to assess how well phenylalanine is being metabolized. It can help monitor dietary treatment or medication in people with PKU and may also be used when symptoms or blood test results suggest a possible problem with phenylalanine metabolism.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory for phenylglyoxylate. Creatinine may be measured in the same sample to help account for variations in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions. These may include a clean-catch urine sample or a timed collection, and your normal diet and medicines should be continued unless your clinician tells you otherwise.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine phenylglyoxylate

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine phenylglyoxylate result show?
It shows how much phenylglyoxylate, a phenylalanine breakdown product, is being excreted in the urine. This can provide information about phenylalanine metabolism.
Is this the same as a blood phenylalanine test?
No. Blood phenylalanine directly measures phenylalanine in the bloodstream, while this test measures a related breakdown product in urine. The two tests may be used together.
Does an abnormal result diagnose PKU?
An abnormal result alone does not establish the diagnosis. Your clinician will interpret it with your medical history, blood phenylalanine results, diet, medications, 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