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Pipecolate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures urine pipecolate relative to creatinine to help evaluate pipecolic acid metabolism, particularly when a metabolic disorder is suspected.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps assess how much pipecolate is being excreted while accounting for urine concentration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33659-4
Short code
Pipecolate/Creat Ur-Rto
Synonyms
Pipecolate/Creat Ur-Rto
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 pipecolate, a compound produced during the breakdown of amino acids, in your urine. The result is divided by the urine creatinine level, which helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to help evaluate suspected disorders of pipecolic acid metabolism, including certain inherited metabolic conditions. It is usually ordered alongside other urine and blood tests by a clinician familiar with metabolic disease.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested to determine the amounts of pipecolate and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the pipecolate-to-creatinine ratio. Depending on the order, the sample may be a single collection or a timed collection such as a 24-hour urine collection.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional, including whether a timed collection is required. Fasting is generally not necessary, but tell the clinician about medicines, supplements, pregnancy, and any urinary infection because these factors may affect interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine pipecolate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the pipecolate-to-creatinine ratio tell my doctor?
It shows how much pipecolate is present in the urine relative to creatinine. This helps assess pipecolate excretion while reducing the effect of variations in urine concentration.
Is this the same as a 24-hour urine test?
Not always. It may be calculated from a single urine sample or from a timed collection, depending on the laboratory order. Always follow the collection method your clinician specifies.
Can medications or supplements affect the result?
Some medicines and supplements may influence metabolic testing or urine measurements. Provide your clinician with a complete list of products you take, and do not stop prescribed medicines unless instructed.
  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