24-Hour Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio by Electrophoresis
This test measures the total amount of protein excreted in your urine over 24 hours, normalized to your creatinine levels, using protein electrophoresis to assess protein patterns.
["Helps identify kidney protein loss and protein patterns that may signal kidney disease or other conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42482-0
- Short code
- M Protein 24h Ur Elph-mRate
- Synonyms
- M Protein 24h Ur Elph-mRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- 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 signs of kidney problems. It helps determine whether you’re losing too much protein in your urine, which can indicate conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or other systemic issues.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine for 24 hours in a special container. The urine is then analyzed using electrophoresis to separate proteins, and the results are compared to your creatinine levels to calculate the protein-to-creatinine ratio.
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. Drink enough fluids to produce urine consistently, but avoid excessive caffeine or diuretics unless instructed otherwise.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves a simple urine collection process. After 24 hours, your sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically reported as a ratio, not absolute protein amounts.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24h Urine Protein-Creatinine Ratio (Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
A high ratio may suggest kidney disease, such as nephrotic syndrome or glomerulonephritis, where the kidneys fail to filter proteins properly. It can also indicate conditions like diabetes or certain autoimmune diseases that affect protein excretion.
An elevated result suggests you may be losing excessive protein in your urine, which can lead to complications like fluid retention, low blood protein levels, or weakened immunity. Follow-up tests or treatments may be recommended to address the underlying cause.
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have kidney disease or related conditions.
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