Skip to content

Propionylcarnitine in urine (Carnitine Metabolite Profile)

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

This test measures a specific breakdown product of amino acids in your urine, which can help identify metabolic conditions.

Quick summary

["Detecting abnormal levels may signal metabolic disorders like organic acidemias."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110354-8
Short code
Propionylgly/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Propionylgly/Creat Msmt Ur
Category
glucose
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, vomiting, poor growth, or neurological issues. It’s often used when other tests suggest a metabolic disorder affecting how your body breaks down certain nutrients.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample collected over 24 hours, typically in a container provided by your lab. Follow any specific instructions your provider gives you to ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels may indicate conditions like propionic acidemia or other organic acidemias, where your body struggles to process certain amino acids properly. Lower-than-normal levels might not be directly relevant unless part of a broader metabolic assessment.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often part of a broader metabolic screening, especially in newborns or individuals with suspected inherited metabolic disorders. It helps track how well your body processes nutrients over time.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Propionylcarnitine in Metabolic Health

Short name

Urine Propionylcarnitine

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated propionylcarnitine levels?
Elevated levels are most commonly linked to inherited metabolic disorders, such as propionic acidemia or methylmalonic aciduria, where the body cannot properly break down certain amino acids. Dietary factors, infections, or other metabolic stress can also temporarily raise levels.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your provider will determine how often to repeat this test based on your symptoms, diagnosis, and overall health. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a known metabolic disorder.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes, certain diets—such as those high in branched-chain amino acids (like leucine, isoleucine, and valine)—may influence propionylcarnitine levels. Your provider may recommend dietary adjustments or monitoring if this test is part of ongoing management.
  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