Ketonuria occurs when high levels of ketone bodies which occur when cells are broken down for energy are present in the urine. Ketonuria can be dangerous if ketones levels become high and may need to be monitored amongst people with diabetes who are prone to high blood glucose levels.

When would ketone bodies appear in the urine?

If your cells don't get enough glucose, your body burns fat for energy instead. This produces a substance called ketones, which can show up in your blood and urine. High ketone levels in urine may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a complication of diabetes that can lead to a coma or even death.

What is the cause of Ketonuria?

If you are fasting or have health conditions like diabetes, your body makes more ketones than it can use. This increases the levels of ketone bodies in your liver. Your body tries to get rid of them when you pee, resulting in high ketone levels in urine, or ketonuria.