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Salicylurate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This urine test measures salicylurate, a salicylate metabolite, relative to urine creatinine to help assess salicylate exposure.

Quick summary

["The result can help evaluate exposure to salicylate-containing medicines such as aspirin."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79478-4
Short code
Salicylurate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Salicylurate/Creat Ur-sRto
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
7.2
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 salicylurate, a breakdown product of salicylate, in urine and compares it with urine creatinine. The ratio helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to monitor exposure to salicylate medicines such as aspirin, especially when use is frequent, long-term, or higher than recommended. It may also be included in certain toxicology or drug-monitoring assessments.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and tested for salicylurate and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates their relative amounts to produce the ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine collection instructions, including any specified collection time or amount. Tell your clinician about aspirin, bismuth products, and other salicylate-containing medicines, but do not stop prescribed medication without guidance.

Reference range

NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urinary salicylurate/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What is salicylurate?
Salicylurate is a metabolite formed when the body processes salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin and related medicines.
Why is creatinine included in this urine test?
Urine creatinine helps show how concentrated the specimen is. Comparing salicylurate with creatinine reduces the effect of variation in urine concentration.
Does an elevated result mean I have aspirin poisoning?
Not necessarily. An elevated result can reflect recent or repeated salicylate exposure, and it must be interpreted with symptoms, medication history, and other clinical findings.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy