Urine amino acids (aminogram) test
Quick answer: This test measures the levels of amino acids, the building blocks of protein, in urine. Doctors order it to look for inherited metabolic disorders, especially in babies and children, and some kidney conditions.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes to give the sample
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You get a clean container from the lab
- 2You pass urine into the container, or a bag is used for babies
- 3The container is closed and labelled with the time
- 4The lab separates and measures the amino acids in the sample
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Raised levels of particular amino acids can point to inherited metabolic disorders or kidney tubule problems. The pattern of which amino acids are raised matters more than any single value.
Who usually has this test
Babies and children with poor feeding, slow growth or developmental delay, and people with suspected kidney tubule disorders.
Risks and aftercare
There are no physical risks from giving a urine sample.
Names and options
Also called: aminogram, urine amino acid screen
Listed by the hospital as
- AMINOGRAM, URINE
Questions about this test
Why is this test often done in babies?
Many inherited metabolic disorders show up in the first months of life with poor feeding, vomiting or slow growth. A urine amino acid test is one way to look for them.
Does diet affect urine amino acids?
Yes, recent meals and some feeds can change the pattern. The lab or your doctor may ask about feeding times and medicines.
What if the result is abnormal?
An abnormal pattern usually leads to more specific blood or genetic tests. Your doctor or a metabolic specialist will explain the next steps.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.