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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures urinary alpha-aminobutyric acid relative to creatinine, helping assess amino acid excretion while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help identify increased excretion of alpha-aminobutyric acid, which may occur with certain inherited disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13667-1
Short code
A-Aminobutyr/Creat Ur
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr/Creat 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?

This test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in urine and compares its amount with urine creatinine. The ratio helps account for variations in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate unusual amino acid excretion, including possible inherited problems of amino acid transport. It is usually interpreted together with symptoms, other urine tests, and genetic or confirmatory testing.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the alpha-aminobutyric acid-to-creatinine ratio. The collection method and timing should follow the instructions provided by the laboratory.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is generally not required, but follow any diet or medication instructions given by your healthcare professional. Tell the laboratory if you have a known kidney, metabolic, or genetic condition that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine alpha-aminobutyric acid ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting is usually not required, although your clinician may provide special instructions if this is part of a broader metabolic evaluation.
Why is the result reported as a ratio?
The creatinine ratio helps reduce the effect of changes in urine concentration, making comparisons between samples more useful.
Does an abnormal result confirm a genetic disorder?
No. An abnormal ratio can suggest increased amino acid excretion, but diagnosis usually requires additional urine or blood tests and sometimes genetic 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