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Taurine, Amniotic Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of taurine in amniotic fluid, the fluid surrounding an unborn baby. This is a specialized prenatal laboratory test.

Quick summary

["The result shows how much taurine is present in the amniotic fluid and must be interpreted alongside the pregnancy and other test findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13415-5
Short code
Taurine Amn-mCnc
Synonyms
Taurine Amn-mCnc
Category
urine
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 concentration of taurine, an amino acid-like compound found throughout the body, in amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the protective fluid surrounding the fetus during pregnancy.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered as part of a specialized evaluation for certain fetal metabolic or genetic conditions. It is generally not a routine screening test and is ordered only when a prenatal care specialist determines it is appropriate.

How is the test performed?

Amniotic fluid is collected through a procedure called amniocentesis. The laboratory then measures the amount of taurine in the sample using a validated analytical method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the specific instructions given by your prenatal care team. Preparation and procedural details vary, so ask whether fasting or medication changes are needed and how the results will be communicated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An unexpectedly low or high taurine concentration may contribute to the assessment of a possible fetal metabolic or genetic condition. The result must be considered with gestational age, pregnancy history, ultrasound findings, and other laboratory results. It cannot be used by itself to establish a diagnosis.

Short name

Amniotic fluid taurine

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine prenatal screening test?
No. It is a specialized biochemical test usually performed when a clinician has a specific reason to evaluate the fetus for a suspected condition.
How is amniotic fluid collected?
A clinician removes a small amount of amniotic fluid through amniocentesis using ultrasound guidance. The procedure is generally performed by a trained specialist.
Can this result diagnose a condition on its own?
No. A prenatal specialist or genetic counselor interprets the result together with the rest of the pregnancy evaluation and may recommend additional testing or follow-up.
  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