An acid present in the urine, especially in diabetic ketoacidosis, when fatty acid conversion to ketones increases.
An organic acid, which plays a role in the metabolism of fats and belongs to a category of compounds known as acetone bodies or ketone bodies. This acid can be detected in the bloodstream during conditions like diabetes, and when it accumulates excessively, it can act as an anesthetic, potentially leading to diabetic coma. Hydroxybutyric acid is responsible for the unpleasant odor and taste found in rancid butter and the scent of decomposing sweat.