Skip to content

Total Protein with Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (24-hour urine collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your total protein levels in your blood and compares them to the amount of protein found in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess kidney function and detect potential protein loss.

Quick summary

["Check kidney health and identify protein loss in urine, often linked to kidney disease or other conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
66481-3
Short code
M Protein 2 ?Tm Ur-mRate
Synonyms
M Protein 2 ?Tm Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor kidney function in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

For the urine part, you’ll collect all urine for 24 hours in a special container. For the blood test, a small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. Follow any dietary restrictions your doctor provides to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

The blood test measures total protein levels in your serum. The urine test compares protein levels to creatinine (a waste product from muscles) to account for urine volume differences, helping identify protein loss in your kidneys.

What the Results Mean

High protein in urine (proteinuria) may signal kidney damage, while elevated blood protein levels could indicate conditions like liver disease or dehydration. Your doctor will interpret results based on your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein & Urine Protein Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated protein in urine?
Protein in urine can be caused by kidney problems (e.g., glomerulonephritis), diabetes, high blood pressure, or infections. It may also appear temporarily after exercise or illness.
How long does it take to get results?
Results from blood and urine tests are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow.
Can I eat or drink anything before the urine collection?
Yes, but avoid excessive protein-rich foods or caffeine for 24 hours before collecting urine. Drink normal fluids unless instructed otherwise, as this helps ensure accurate urine volume measurement.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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