: Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio, Mass Concentration
: This test compares the amount of protein to the amount of creatinine in a urine sample to estimate how much protein is being lost through the kidneys.
[": The protein-to-creatinine ratio helps show whether protein is spilling into the urine, which can be a sign of kidney stress or disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2182-4
- Short code
- CyB Reduct Amn-cCnc
- Synonyms
- CyB Reduct Amn-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What This Test Measures
: Your urine naturally contains small amounts of protein and creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product made at a steady rate by your muscles. By comparing protein to creatinine in the same sample, the test adjusts for how concentrated your urine is, giving a clearer picture than a protein level alone.
: Why Your Clinician Ordered It
: This test is often used to screen for or monitor kidney problems, such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes-related kidney changes, or high blood pressure affecting the kidneys. It may also be checked if you have swelling or other signs of kidney concern.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: You will provide a urine sample, usually a random "spot" collection rather than a full 24-hour collection. Your care team may ask you to avoid heavy exercise or certain foods beforehand, so follow any instructions you are given.
: What the Results Mean
: A higher ratio suggests more protein is passing into the urine relative to creatinine. Results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, other kidney tests, and your medical history. Your clinician will explain what your specific result means for you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Protein in the urine can be an early sign of kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or high blood pressure. The protein-to-creatinine ratio is a convenient screening and monitoring tool because it uses a single urine sample. Small, temporary increases can occur with fever, exercise, or infection, so an abnormal result is often rechecked before conclusions are drawn.
Short name
: Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
: Do I need to fast for this test?
: Can one abnormal result mean I have kidney disease?
: Is this the same as a 24-hour urine protein test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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