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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid/Creatinine Ratio, 24-Hour Urine

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

Measures alpha-aminobutyric acid relative to creatinine in urine collected for 24 hours to help evaluate amino acid metabolism and nutritional status.

Quick summary

["This urine test can identify changes in alpha-aminobutyric acid excretion that may reflect nutrition, metabolism, or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25849-1
Short code
A-Aminobutyr/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
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?

This test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid, a type of amino acid, in a 24-hour urine collection. The result may be compared with the amount of creatinine in the same collection.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate how your body handles amino acids and to help assess nutritional status. A clinician may also use it when investigating unexplained changes in urine amino acid levels.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine produced during a full 24-hour period. The laboratory measures alpha-aminobutyric acid and creatinine and may report the amount or the ratio of one to the other.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your laboratory, including the exact start and stop times. Do not change your diet or stop medications unless your clinician instructs you to do so, and tell the laboratory about relevant medical conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal result may reflect changes in protein or amino acid intake, altered amino acid metabolism, or differences in how the kidneys handle these substances. The result should be interpreted with symptoms, diet, medications, and other laboratory findings. An isolated abnormal value does not by itself establish a specific diagnosis.

Short name

24-hour urine alpha-aminobutyric acid/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
It captures all urine produced over a full day, which can provide a more complete picture of daily excretion than a single urine sample.
What does the creatinine comparison tell us?
Creatinine is used as a reference for urine concentration. Comparing alpha-aminobutyric acid with creatinine helps account for variation in how concentrated the urine sample is.
Are fasting or special dietary restrictions required?
Fasting is generally not required, but instructions may vary. Maintain your usual diet unless your clinician specifically recommends a change.
  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