Biochemical Genetic Test: Urine Organic Acids

Also known as: organic acids urine test, organic acids test, metabolic analysis profile – organic acids.

What is biochemical genetic test: urine organic acids?

Metabolism is the sum of the chemical processes whereby the body builds new molecules and breaks down others to get rid of waste products and produce energy. When organic acids build up in the body (there are several dozen organic acidemias which are frequently the result of an inherited enzyme abnormality in protein metabolism) they derange many of normal chemical processes that the body needs to be in good health. They may present with either an acute life-threatening illness in early infancy or unexplained developmental delay in later life. Urine is tested for organic acid abnormalities because it contains levels approximately 100 times those found in the blood and therefor makes the test more accurate than doing it on blood samples.

What happens during the procedure?

A urine sample is required. This is which is sent to a laboratory for testing.

Is any special preparation needed?

Depending on the age of the infant/child, diet, and/or medications may require adjusting. Your Nicklaus Children’s Hospital specialist will outline any preparations required.

What are the risk factors?

There are no risk factors to testing the urine. While collecting a urine sample in young infants may have some potential complications, the benefits of an accurate diagnosis is thought to far outweigh the potential risks.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf MD.

This page was last updated on: March 26, 2019 12:26 PM