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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid/Creatinine [Mass Ratio] in 24-Hour Urine

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

A 24-hour urine test that measures alpha-aminobutyric acid relative to creatinine while accounting for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid in a full day's urine compared with creatinine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44296-2
Short code
A-Aminobutyr/Creat 24h Ur
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr/Creat 24h Ur
Category
liver
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?

Alpha-aminobutyric acid is an amino acid, a building block of protein. This test measures it in urine collected for 24 hours and compares it with urine creatinine, which helps account for variations in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used as part of an evaluation of amino acid excretion, protein metabolism, nutritional status, or suspected kidney-related changes in handling amino acids. Your clinician will explain why this specific measurement is relevant to your situation.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine into a designated container for 24 hours. The laboratory then measures alpha-aminobutyric acid and creatinine and calculates their ratio. Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory carefully.

How do I prepare for the test?

Begin at the time specified by the laboratory and collect every urine sample for the full 24-hour period, including nighttime samples. Do not change your diet or fluid intake unless instructed, and contact the laboratory or clinician if any urine is accidentally missed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is creatinine included in this test?
Creatinine is used to help adjust the urine measurement for how concentrated or dilute the urine is. This makes the amino acid result easier to interpret across different fluid intake levels.
What if I miss part of the 24-hour urine collection?
An incomplete collection can make the result inaccurate. Contact the laboratory or clinician for guidance, because the collection may need to be repeated.
Does an abnormal result mean I have a specific disease?
No single abnormal result usually establishes a specific disease by itself. Your clinician will consider symptoms, medical history, kidney function, diet, medications, and other laboratory results.
  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