Ordering the Organic Acids Full Panel Urine
The Organic Acids Full Panel Urine test measures 78 different organic acids in urine, providing a detailed look at how the body breaks down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. This test can help identify metabolic imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and issues with energy production. Interestingly, certain organic acids can reveal early signs of gut bacteria or yeast overgrowth before symptoms become obvious.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Detect imbalances in energy production pathways
- Identify vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as B-vitamins and magnesium
- Spot early signs of gut bacteria or yeast overgrowth
- Monitor detoxification and antioxidant function
- Track changes in metabolism after dietary or supplement changes
Who Might Benefit from Organic Acid Analysis
People who experience ongoing tiredness, trouble focusing, or digestive discomfort may find this test helpful. For example, someone who feels drained after eating, has trouble sleeping, and notices changes in mood might use this test to find out if their body is having trouble processing nutrients.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Unexplained muscle aches or joint pain
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Children with learning or behavior challenges
- Adults with long-term skin issues like eczema
- People who have recently taken antibiotics and want to check for changes in gut bacteria
This test can show if your body is missing key nutrients or if your metabolism is not working as it should, which can affect how you feel and function each day. Delaying this test may mean missing early signs of nutrient loss or gut changes, making it harder to address these issues quickly.
Preparing for Urinary Organic Acid Screening
Fasting is not required for this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before collecting your urine sample. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected the right way and your results are as helpful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Organic Acids Full Panel Urine
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of Organic Acids Full Panel Urine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citric Acid | 180–820 | Citric acid is a key part of the energy cycle, helping turn food into energy. It also helps remove waste products from cells. |
High levels mean your body may be breaking down energy too quickly or you may have a kidney issue.
Low levels mean your body may not be making enough energy or you could be missing certain nutrients. |
| Lactic Acid | < 20 | Lactic acid is made when the body breaks down sugar for energy, especially during exercise or low oxygen. It can show how well your body uses energy. |
High levels mean your body may not be getting enough oxygen or you could have a metabolic imbalance.
Low levels mean your body is using energy normally or you may not be active. |
| Kynurenic Acid | 0–12 | Kynurenic acid is made from tryptophan, an amino acid. It can show changes in brain chemistry and inflammation. |
High levels mean there may be inflammation or changes in brain function.
Low levels mean your body may not be breaking down tryptophan as much. |
| Arabinose | 0–47 | Arabinose is a sugar acid that can show if there is yeast overgrowth in the gut. It is often used to check for candida. |
High levels mean you may have too much yeast in your digestive system.
Low levels mean yeast is not likely to be a problem. |
| Mandelic Acid | 0–10 | Mandelic acid is a marker for how the body breaks down certain amino acids and can show exposure to some chemicals. |
High levels mean your body may be exposed to chemicals or have trouble breaking down proteins.
Low levels mean normal protein breakdown or low exposure to certain chemicals. |
| Homovanillic Acid (HVA) | 1.0–7.0 | Homovanillic acid is a breakdown product of dopamine, a brain chemical. It can show changes in mood or nervous system function. |
High levels mean increased dopamine activity or stress.
Low levels mean low dopamine production or possible nervous system issues. |
| Vanilmandelic Acid (VMA) | 1.0–7.0 | Vanilmandelic acid is a marker for how the body breaks down adrenaline and noradrenaline, which are stress hormones. |
High levels mean increased stress hormone activity or certain tumors.
Low levels mean low stress hormone production. |
| 3-Hydroxybutyric Acid | 0–2 | 3-Hydroxybutyric acid is a ketone body, showing how the body uses fat for energy, especially during fasting or low-carb diets. |
High levels mean your body is using fat for energy or you may have diabetes.
Low levels mean normal carbohydrate use or not enough fat breakdown. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Organic Acids Full Panel Urine FAQ
Is there Organic Acids Full Panel Urine testing near me?
You can find a nearby location for Organic Acids Full Panel Urine using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. This is especially helpful if you need a quick and easy way to collect a urine sample when dealing with ongoing tiredness or digestive issues.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the Organic Acids Full Panel Urine covers everything, including the sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it if you want to find out if nutrient imbalances are causing your symptoms.
How often should I retest?
Retesting every 6 to 12 months is recommended, especially if you are making changes to your diet or supplements. This helps track how your metabolism and nutrient levels respond over time.
How accurate is the test?
The Organic Acids Full Panel Urine uses gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for precise measurement of organic acids, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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