Tyrosine concentration in urine (24-hour collection)
This test measures the amount of tyrosine, an amino acid, excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It may be used to assess metabolic or genetic conditions affecting amino acid metabolism.
["This test helps evaluate how well your body processes certain amino acids."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33021-7
- Short code
- Tyrosine Cry #/area UrnS LPF
- Synonyms
- Tyrosine Cry #/area UrnS LPF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light-lpf
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or a family history suggestive of metabolic disorders, such as tyrosinemia or other aminoacidopathies. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained health concerns related to amino acid metabolism.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period, typically starting after midnight one day and ending the same time the next day. Wear a urine collection container and keep it refrigerated. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
How the Test Is Performed
Urine samples are sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures tyrosine concentration using a specialized method, often involving chromatography or immunoassay, to detect and quantify the amino acid in your urine.
What the Results Mean
Results may be compared to a reference range specific to your age, sex, and health status. Elevated levels might indicate metabolic disorders, while lower levels could suggest other conditions or errors in collection. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal tyrosine levels in urine can signal underlying metabolic disorders, such as tyrosinemia or other aminoacidopathies. These conditions may cause symptoms like fatigue, developmental delays, or organ damage. Early detection and management are crucial for preventing complications.
Short name
24-Hour Urine Tyrosine
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal tyrosine levels in urine?
How can I prepare for this test?
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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