Valine

Valine is an essential amino acid your body cannot produce and must obtain from foods like meat, dairy, nuts, and legumes. This urine test measures valine levels and is typically used in genetic metabolic screening, particularly for amino acid metabolism disorders. Abnormal urine valine levels can indicate conditions like maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) or other inherited metabolic disorders affecting amino acid processing. Early detection through newborn screening or in symptomatic individuals is critical, as these conditions can cause serious neurological problems if untreated.