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Valine-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures how much valine is excreted in urine relative to creatinine, helping evaluate valine metabolism and kidney handling of amino acids.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps identify abnormal loss of valine and can provide information about nutrition, metabolism, or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30064-0
Short code
Valine/Creat Ur-Rto
Synonyms
Valine/Creat Ur-Rto
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 valine in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Valine is an essential amino acid, while creatinine helps account for how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may use this test when there is concern about an inherited amino-acid metabolism disorder, kidney reabsorption problems, or unusual valine loss. It may also be used to assess nutritional status in certain situations.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested for valine and creatinine, and the results are used to calculate the valine-to-creatinine ratio. This is commonly measured from a single urine sample, although a timed collection may be requested in some cases.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about when and how to collect the urine. A midstream clean-catch sample is usually used, and fasting is generally not required unless specifically requested. Tell the clinician if you take protein, amino-acid, or nutritional supplements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated ratio may indicate increased urinary loss of valine, reduced kidney reabsorption, or an abnormality of valine metabolism. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, diet, medications, supplements, and other laboratory findings because urine levels can vary and no single result establishes a diagnosis.

Short name

Urine valine-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure kidney function?
Not by itself. Creatinine is used to normalize the urine measurement, but the ratio primarily reflects urinary valine excretion rather than overall kidney function.
Do I need to fast before the test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary, but high-protein meals and amino-acid or protein supplements can affect results. Follow any specific preparation instructions provided by your clinician.
What if my urine collection was not concentrated?
The creatinine measurement helps reduce the effect of urine concentration. If collection problems or an unexpected result occur, the clinician may request another sample or additional testing.
  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