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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Urine — Mass Concentration

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

This urine test measures the concentration of alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid sometimes included in a urinary amino acid profile.

Quick summary

["The result shows how much alpha-aminobutyric acid is present in the urine sample."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1790-5
Short code
A-Aminobutyr Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr Ur-mCnc
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 the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid in urine. It may be ordered alone or as part of a broader evaluation of urinary amino acids and metabolism.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to investigate unusual amino acid levels, symptoms suggesting an inherited metabolic condition, or changes in how the body handles amino acids. It may also be used to monitor care for a known metabolic disorder.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in the laboratory to determine the concentration of alpha-aminobutyric acid. The result is usually reported per unit volume of urine, and the collection method can affect interpretation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or clinician, including whether a first-morning, random, or timed urine sample is required. Do not change your diet or stop medications unless your clinician specifically advises you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated or reduced result may reflect changes in amino acid metabolism, nutritional status, kidney handling, or a rare inherited metabolic disorder. An isolated abnormal value does not establish a diagnosis and should be interpreted with symptoms, other laboratory results, and the type of urine collection. Collection timing, recent food intake, illness, and medications can also affect the result.

Short name

Urine Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine alpha-aminobutyric acid result mean?
It shows the concentration of this amino acid in the urine at the time of collection. The result is interpreted alongside other laboratory findings and clinical information rather than as a diagnosis by itself.
Is this the same test as alpha-1 antitrypsin?
No. Alpha-aminobutyric acid is an amino acid measured in urine, while alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein measured in blood and is often associated with emphysema or liver disease.
Why does the urine collection time matter?
Urine concentrations can change throughout the day, especially with fluid intake and recent meals. Using the collection period requested by the laboratory helps make the result easier 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