Skip to content

Urine Suberate-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test that compares suberate with creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This ratio shows how much suberate is present relative to creatinine in a urine sample."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13810-7
Short code
Suberate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Suberate/Creat Ur
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 suberate, an organic acid, in urine and compares its amount with the urine creatinine level. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine concentration can vary from one sample to another.

Why might I need this test?

This ratio may be ordered when symptoms suggest an inherited problem with metabolism or when a clinician is evaluating unusual organic acid levels. It is generally interpreted together with other urine and blood tests.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed for suberate and creatinine, and the laboratory calculates their ratio. The result may be based on a single urine collection or a timed collection, depending on the order.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, including whether a first-morning or timed sample is required. Do not stop prescribed medicines or make major diet changes unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated ratio may indicate increased urinary excretion of suberate, which can occur in some inherited metabolic disorders and may also be influenced by diet, age, or medications. This result is not diagnostic by itself and should be interpreted with symptoms and other laboratory findings.

Short name

Urinary Suberate-to-Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the suberate-to-creatinine ratio show?
It shows the amount of suberate relative to creatinine in the same urine sample. Using creatinine helps reduce the effect of differences in how concentrated the urine is.
Why is this test ordered?
It may be used to evaluate possible abnormalities in organic acid metabolism, particularly when symptoms suggest an inherited metabolic condition. Other tests are usually needed to establish a diagnosis.
Does an abnormal result mean I have a metabolic disorder?
No. An abnormal ratio can have several causes and does not confirm a disorder by itself. Your clinician will review the result with your medical history, symptoms, and additional tests.
  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