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Taurine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures taurine relative to creatinine, which is used to account for variations in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This ratio can help evaluate urinary taurine levels, but results must be interpreted with diet, kidney function, and other clinical findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13814-9
Short code
Taurine/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Taurine/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 the amount of taurine in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product made by the muscles and is commonly used to help adjust urine measurements for how concentrated or dilute the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to evaluate taurine metabolism or nutritional status. It may also be used in the assessment of certain inherited metabolic conditions or when monitoring people with conditions that affect nutrient processing and kidney function.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample according to the laboratory's collection instructions. The laboratory measures taurine and creatinine in the sample and calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions from your clinician or laboratory, including whether a first-morning or other timed urine collection is required. Tell the healthcare team about relevant supplements, infant formula, medications, and unusual changes in your diet because these can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher or lower ratio may reflect changes in urinary taurine, creatinine excretion, urine concentration, diet, or kidney function. In some cases, abnormal results can be associated with nutritional, metabolic, or inherited disorders. Your clinician will interpret the result alongside symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory tests rather than using the ratio alone.

Short name

Urine taurine/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the taurine/creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of taurine in urine with the amount of creatinine. This can make the result less dependent on how concentrated or dilute the urine sample is.
Does an abnormal result mean I have a metabolic disorder?
No. Diet, supplements, hydration, kidney function, medications, and collection timing can affect the ratio, so an abnormal result usually requires additional clinical evaluation.
Do I need to collect a 24-hour urine sample?
It depends on the instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Some tests use a single urine sample, while others require a timed collection such as a 24-hour collection.
  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