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Urinary Succinate-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test that measures succinate relative to creatinine, helping evaluate how much succinate is being excreted by the kidneys.

Quick summary

["This ratio adjusts the urine succinate level for urine concentration and may support evaluation of certain metabolic or kidney conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13812-3
Short code
Succinate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Succinate/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 succinate, a substance involved in cellular energy metabolism, in urine and compares it with the urine creatinine level. The ratio helps account for variations in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when a clinician is evaluating a suspected inherited metabolic disorder, unusual symptoms related to energy metabolism, or certain problems with kidney acidification. It is generally used as part of a broader metabolic workup.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested for succinate and creatinine using laboratory methods. The laboratory calculates the succinate-to-creatinine ratio from the measured values.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, which may request a first-morning or clean-catch urine sample. You usually do not need to fast or change your diet, but you should tell the clinician about medicines, supplements, and recent illness.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated urinary succinate-to-creatinine ratio may occur with certain inherited metabolic or mitochondrial conditions and with some disorders of kidney acid handling. Results can also be influenced by collection timing, diet, medicines, and kidney function, so an abnormal result does not establish a diagnosis by itself. A clinician should interpret the ratio alongside symptoms, other urine tests, and blood tests.

Short name

Succinate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a specific condition?
No. An abnormal result can point toward metabolic or kidney-related causes but must be interpreted with the rest of the clinical evaluation.
Why is creatinine included in the test?
Creatinine is used to account for how concentrated or dilute the urine is. This makes the succinate measurement more useful for comparison.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally not required unless your clinician or laboratory gives different instructions. Always follow the specific preparation instructions provided for your test.
  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