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Xylose/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that compares xylose with creatinine to help evaluate how well the small intestine absorbs carbohydrate.

Quick summary

["This test can help assess intestinal absorption, but the result must be interpreted with the collection details and other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75051-3
Short code
Xylose/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Xylose/Creat Ur-sRto
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 xylose relative to creatinine in urine. Xylose is a simple sugar that is normally absorbed through the small intestine, while creatinine is used to account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used as part of an intestinal absorption evaluation, particularly when malabsorption is suspected. The ratio can help show whether orally administered xylose is being absorbed and excreted as expected.

How is the test performed?

You may be given a measured oral dose of xylose, followed by urine collection over a specified time. The laboratory measures xylose and creatinine in the urine and calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's instructions about fasting, taking the xylose dose, and collecting urine. Timing is important, so do not begin or delay the collection without guidance. Tell your clinician about relevant medicines or recent antibiotic use, but do not stop any medicine unless instructed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine xylose/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the urine xylose/creatinine ratio show?
It shows how much xylose appears in urine relative to creatinine, helping assess whether xylose is being absorbed normally by the small intestine.
Is this the same as a glucose tolerance test?
No. This test uses xylose as an absorption marker rather than measuring the body's response to a glucose load.
Why is urine collection timing important?
The result depends on when urine is collected after the xylose dose. An incorrect or incomplete collection time can make the result difficult to interpret.
  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