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24hpredictedprotmratrangeurcalc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test estimates how much protein is in your urine over 24 hours using a single urine sample, helping doctors monitor kidney function without a lengthy urine collection.

Quick summary

{"Predicts 24-hour protein excretion from a single urine sample","Helps diagnose and monitor kidney disease","Measures protein-to-creatinine ratio in urine","Avoids need for cumbersome 24-hour urine collection","Higher than normal levels may indicate kidney damage"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96804-0
Short code
24hr Prot Pred
Synonyms
24H predicted prot mRatRange Ur Calc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Clean urine collection container or 24-hour urine collection container
Units
N/A
Ref low
30
Ref high
300
Critical range
— – 3500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
calculated
CPT
82043
SNOMED
313255003
Specimen volume
10-20 mL for random sample; complete 24-hour collection for traditional method
Stability
Random urine: refrigerate if not processed within 24 hours; 24-hour collection: keep refrigerated throughout collection period
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 24-hour predicted protein test estimates how much protein your kidneys are excreting in a 24-hour period by analyzing a single random urine sample. Normally, healthy kidneys filter waste from your blood while keeping important proteins in your bloodstream. When kidneys are damaged, protein leaks into urine. This test helps doctors detect and monitor kidney problems without requiring you to collect all urine for 24 hours.

How does it work?

The test measures two substances in your urine: protein and creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product that muscles produce at a fairly constant rate. By comparing protein to creatinine (protein-to-creatinine ratio), doctors can estimate your 24-hour protein excretion. This calculation accounts for variations in urine concentration throughout the day.

How to prepare

No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to provide a first-morning urine sample for most accurate results, as it's more concentrated. Inform your doctor about any medications you're taking, as some drugs can affect test results. Stay well-hydrated unless otherwise instructed.

Reference range

Normal: <150 mg/24 hours; Microalbuminuria: 30-300 mg/24 hours; Clinical proteinuria: >300 mg/24 hoursN/A

Specimen: serum

For predicted (random) method: collect random urine sample. For actual 24-hour collection: collect all urine for 24 hours in provided container, keep refrigerated during collection, record start and end times, inform patient to avoid strenuous exercise during collection period

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Why not just do a 24-hour urine collection?
This prediction test is more convenient and provides accurate estimates for most patients. A 24-hour collection can be cumbersome and prone to collection errors. However, for certain conditions, your doctor may still order the traditional 24-hour urine test.
Is protein in urine always serious?
Small amounts of protein in urine can sometimes be normal, especially after exercise or during illness. However, consistently elevated protein levels usually indicate kidney problems that need medical attention.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported as a protein-to-creatinine ratio. Normal ratio is usually less than 0.2 (or 200mg/g). Higher ratios may indicate kidney damage. Your doctor will interpret results based on your overall health and other test findings.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy