Citrate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine
Use
This test calculates the citrate concentration per creatinine and is useful for evaluating risk factors for calcium kidney stone formation and monitoring therapy in patients with stones or renal tubular acidosis. Low urinary citrate is a key risk marker for stone formation; very low values may indicate metabolic acidosis such as renal tubular acidosis. In children aged 5 to 18, a ratio below 0.176 mg citrate/mg creatinine is below the 5th percentile and considered low ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/606642?utm_source=openai)).
Special Instructions
This test is not orderable individually; it must be ordered only as part of a profile (e.g., CITRA / Citrate Excretion, Random, Urine) ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/606642?utm_source=openai)).
Limitations
The test uses a calculation performed within the laboratory information system; it lacks established reference values outside of profile context, and is intended for use only in conjunction with an associated profile. Clinical interpretation may be confounded by medication effects on systemic or urinary pH, potassium, or magnesium levels ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/606642?utm_source=openai)).
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 13722-4
- 13722-4
Result Turnaround Time
0-1 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Collection Instructions
Only orderable as part of a profile. For details see CITRA / Citrate Excretion, Random, Urine
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |