Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (UPCR) or Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (qualitative screening)
This test measures the ratio of protein in your urine to a waste product called creatinine, which helps assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney damage or protein loss.
["Assesses kidney health and potential protein loss through urine."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100878-8
- Short code
- Endo US study Upr GI Tract Doc
- Synonyms
- Endo US study Upr GI Tract Doc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used to monitor kidney disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes-related kidney problems. Sometimes it’s part of a routine check for those at higher risk of kidney issues.
How Is the Test Performed?
You’ll provide a urine sample (usually a midstream clean-catch or catheter sample). The lab tests the urine for protein levels and creatinine, then calculates the ratio. No special preparation is needed, but drinking extra water beforehand can help ensure accurate results.
What Do Results Mean?
A higher ratio may indicate kidney problems, such as nephrotic syndrome, diabetes, or high blood pressure. A normal ratio suggests healthy kidney function. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
High ratios can be caused by kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or conditions like lupus or multiple myeloma. Low ratios are less common but may occur with severe kidney damage or certain medications. Always discuss findings with your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
UPCR (Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio)
Frequently asked questions
This test is critical for early detection of kidney issues because it identifies protein loss that might not show up in other tests. Regular monitoring with UPCR helps manage kidney disease, track treatment effectiveness, and prevent progression to more serious stages.
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health condition. For example, people with diabetes or kidney disease may need it more often than others. Follow their advice for scheduling.
What if I have kidney stones?
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