Guided Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (24-Hour Collection)
This test measures the ratio of protein and creatinine in your urine over 24 hours to assess kidney function and detect protein loss in urine, which may indicate kidney damage or disease.
["Helps identify kidney issues by checking for excessive protein in urine over a full day."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87144-2
- Short code
- Guided UE PICC place
- Synonyms
- Guided UE PICC place
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- imaging-modality
- 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 Matters for Kidney Health
Kidneys normally filter waste and excess substances from your blood, including small amounts of protein. If your kidneys are damaged, they may not work as well, allowing more protein to leak into your urine. This test helps track how well your kidneys are filtering protein over time.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine for a full 24-hour period. The test measures two key substances: protein (which can indicate kidney damage) and creatinine (a waste product your kidneys filter). The ratio helps doctors determine if protein is appearing in your urine beyond normal levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you’ll need to collect every drop of urine for 24 hours, including at night. Use a clean container and mark the times when you start and finish collecting. Drink plenty of fluids to help your kidneys produce urine consistently.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll return the urine sample to the lab after 24 hours. The lab will analyze the collected urine to measure protein and creatinine levels, then calculate the ratio. This process is painless and takes place in a lab setting.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High protein levels in urine (proteinuria) can signal kidney damage, chronic kidney disease, or conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. This test helps monitor kidney function, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection allows for timely treatment to slow or prevent further damage.
Short name
24h Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What does a high or low ratio mean?
Can I drink alcohol before this 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