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Urinary Sialic Acid-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

This urine test measures sialic acid relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["The ratio can help evaluate urinary sialic acid while adjusting for how concentrated the urine is."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40452-5
Short code
Sialate/Creat Ur-Rto
Synonyms
Sialate/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 sialic acid and creatinine in a urine sample. Dividing the sialic acid result by the creatinine result helps account for variations in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may use this test when evaluating suspected abnormalities involving sialic acid or certain inherited metabolic conditions. The results are interpreted alongside other findings and symptoms.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested in the laboratory to determine the amounts of sialic acid and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the sialic acid-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about when and how to collect the urine sample. The laboratory or clinician will explain whether a first-morning, timed, or random specimen is needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated or reduced ratio may reflect changes in urinary sialic acid excretion, urine concentration, kidney function, or an underlying metabolic condition. Results should be interpreted by a clinician because temporary factors and other laboratory findings can affect the ratio.

Short name

Urinary Sialic Acid/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine urine creatinine test?
It uses the urine creatinine measurement to calculate a ratio, rather than reporting creatinine alone. Creatinine helps account for variations in urine concentration.
Does the test require a blood sample?
No. The test is performed using a urine sample, although your clinician may order other blood or urine tests at the same time.
What can affect the result?
Urine concentration, hydration, collection timing, kidney function, and some inherited metabolic conditions can influence the result. Your clinician will interpret it in the context of your health and other test results.
  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