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Taurine, Amniotic Fluid — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of taurine in amniotic fluid to help evaluate certain fetal metabolic conditions.

Quick summary

["This test measures taurine in amniotic fluid and is interpreted alongside other prenatal and newborn screening results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27310-2
Short code
Taurine Amn-sCnc
Synonyms
Taurine Amn-sCnc
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 sulfonic acid, in amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus during pregnancy and can contain substances that reflect fetal metabolism.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used as part of an evaluation for suspected fetal metabolic disorders, particularly when other prenatal, genetic, or newborn screening findings suggest a possible condition. It is not usually used by itself to make a diagnosis.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional collects amniotic fluid, usually through amniocentesis. The laboratory then measures the taurine concentration using a validated analytical method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Amniotic fluid is collected by a clinician, so there is no separate blood draw or fasting requirement for this test. Follow the instructions and consent process provided by the prenatal care team before amniocentesis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal amniotic fluid taurine concentration may suggest an abnormality in fetal metabolism, but the finding is not specific to one disorder. Results can also be influenced by gestational age, pregnancy-related factors, and laboratory or sample-handling conditions. The result should be interpreted by a prenatal specialist or geneticist together with other tests.

Short name

Amniotic fluid taurine

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine newborn screening test?
No. This test analyzes amniotic fluid collected during pregnancy, while newborn screening usually uses blood, urine, or a heel stick collected after birth.
Does an abnormal result mean the fetus has a confirmed disorder?
No. An abnormal result indicates that further evaluation may be needed, but it does not confirm a specific condition. Other clinical and laboratory findings are needed for diagnosis.
How is amniotic fluid obtained?
It is usually obtained by amniocentesis, a procedure in which a clinician removes a small amount of fluid under ultrasound guidance. The procedure has specific risks and benefits that should be discussed with the prenatal care team.
  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