Urinary Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (24-hour collection)
This test measures the amount of protein in your urine compared to a small amount of a waste product called creatinine, over a full day. It helps assess how much protein is being lost in your urine, which can indicate kidney damage or other kidney-related conditions.
["Helps detect early kidney problems by tracking protein loss in urine over 24 hours."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39599-6
- Short code
- E purpurascens IgE/IgE total %
- Synonyms
- E purpurascens IgE/IgE total %
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or changes in urine appearance. It’s also used to monitor kidney function in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Some people with conditions like glomerulonephritis or nephrotic syndrome may need this test to track how well their kidneys are working.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine over 24 hours in a special container. The test measures two things: the total protein in your urine and the creatinine level, which stays the same in your urine. The ratio helps doctors see if your kidneys are filtering protein properly.
Sample Collection
To collect urine for this test, empty your bladder completely before starting. Then, collect every drop of urine for the next 24 hours, including during sleep. Store the urine in a cool place and bring the container to your lab with the total volume measured. If you forget to start or stop at the right time, your results may not be accurate.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to limit certain foods or medications temporarily. If you’re on a low-sodium diet or taking certain kidney medications, let your doctor know. Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activities that could affect urine flow.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A high protein-to-creatinine ratio (above normal levels) suggests your kidneys are not filtering protein well, which can indicate kidney disease, such as glomerulonephritis or diabetic nephropathy. A normal ratio usually means your kidneys are working as expected. Your doctor will use these results along with other tests to diagnose or monitor kidney problems.
Short name
24h Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to collect urine for this test?
Can I take my usual medications while collecting urine for this test?
What happens if I miss any urine during the 24-hour collection?
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