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Alternative names Return to top
Ketone bodies - urine; Urine ketones: acetone, acetoacetic acid, and beta-hydroxybutyric acidDefinition Return to top
A ketones urine test measures the presence or absence of ketones in the urine.How the test is performed Return to top
Child or adult:How to prepare for the test Return to top
A special diet may be recommended, and drugs that may affect the test results should be discontinued (see Special Considerations).How the test will feel Return to top
The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.Why the test is performed Return to top
Ketones (beta-hydroxybutyric acid, acetoacetic acid, and acetone) are the end-product of rapid or excessive fatty acid breakdown. As with glucose, ketones are present in the urine when the blood levels surpass a certain threshold. Fatty acid release from adipose tissue is stimulated by a number of hormones including glucagon, epinephrine, and growth hormone. The levels of these hormones are increased in starvation (whether related to excess alcohol use or not), uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, and a number of other conditions.Normal Values Return to top
A negative test result is normal. Results of the presence of acetone in the urine are usually listed as small, moderate or large with these corresponding values:
Small - <20 mg/dL
Moderate - 30-40 mg/dL
Large - >80 mg/dL
What abnormal results mean Return to top
A positive test may indicate:What the risks are Return to top
There are no risks.Special considerations Return to top
Special diets may alter test results. For example, a diet consisting of low amounts of carbohydrates with high amounts of protein and fat may effect the ketone levels.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |