Integrated 24-Hour Urinary Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (UPCR) with Mass Concentration Measurement
This test measures the ratio of protein to creatinine in your urine over 24 hours to help assess kidney function and detect protein loss in urine, which can signal kidney damage or other conditions.
["Helps identify kidney issues by checking for excessive protein in urine over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49586-1
- Short code
- Integrated scn Patient-Imp
- Synonyms
- Integrated scn Patient-Imp
- 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 Matters for Kidney Health
Kidneys normally filter waste and excess substances from your blood, including small amounts of protein. If your urine contains too much protein, it may indicate kidney problems like glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, or other conditions. This test provides a comprehensive picture by measuring protein levels relative to creatinine, which remains stable in urine.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after waking up and ending just before your next morning. The collected urine is then analyzed in a lab to determine the protein-to-creatinine ratio, which helps doctors assess kidney function without relying on invasive procedures.
Sample Collection and Preparation
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. You’ll need a clean container to collect all urine over 24 hours, including during sleep. Store the sample at room temperature and bring it to the lab on time. Do not miss any urine—this test requires a full 24-hour collection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous exercise or certain medications that may affect urine protein levels. If you’re pregnant, have kidney disease, or take medications like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), discuss these with your doctor first.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated protein in urine can signal kidney damage, inflammation, or other systemic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune diseases. A normal result suggests healthy kidney filtration, while abnormal results may prompt further testing to identify the cause, such as blood tests, imaging, or additional urine samples.
Short name
UPCR (24-hour urine test)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What does a high or low protein-to-creatinine ratio mean?
Can diet or medications affect 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