Skip to content

Sarcosine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures sarcosine relative to creatinine, helping assess sarcosine metabolism while accounting for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["An elevated urine sarcosine-to-creatinine ratio may indicate a disorder affecting sarcosine metabolism, but results must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25133-0
Short code
Sarcosine/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Sarcosine/Creat Ur-sRto
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 sarcosine in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Sarcosine is an amino acid, and the ratio helps account for how concentrated or dilute a urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to evaluate suspected sarcosine metabolism disorders, particularly when symptoms or other laboratory findings suggest an inherited metabolic condition. It may also help monitor treatment or dietary management.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in the laboratory to determine the amounts of sarcosine and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates their ratio. The test name does not specify a collection method, so your clinician or laboratory will provide the exact instructions.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory, including whether a first-morning, timed, or other urine collection is required. Do not make dietary or medication changes solely for this test unless your clinician instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine sarcosine-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the urine sarcosine-to-creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of sarcosine in urine with the amount of creatinine. Using creatinine as a reference helps reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.
What can cause an elevated result?
An inherited problem with sarcosine metabolism is an important possibility. The result may also vary with urine concentration, recent dietary intake, or other clinical factors.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a metabolic disorder by itself?
No. Results are usually interpreted with your medical history, symptoms, additional laboratory tests, and sometimes genetic testing.
  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