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Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test that compares urinary protein with urine creatinine to help assess how much protein is being lost in the urine.

Quick summary

["The result estimates urinary protein loss while accounting for how concentrated the urine sample is."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58397-1
Short code
PCP/Creat Ur
Synonyms
PCP/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
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

What is this test?

This test measures protein and creatinine in a urine sample and compares them to estimate the amount of protein being lost in the urine. Creatinine is used as a reference because its level in urine varies with urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions that can cause protein to appear in the urine. It can also be used to monitor changes in urinary protein over time.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and tested to measure the concentrations of protein and creatinine. The laboratory then compares the two results to calculate the protein-to-creatinine ratio. Your clinician will interpret the result along with the other parts of your health evaluation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. A clean-catch, midstream urine sample is often requested, and special timing or a 24-hour collection may be required in some cases. Tell the laboratory if you recently had a urinary infection, fever, heavy exercise, or significant muscle injury.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR)

Frequently asked questions

What does the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio show?
It estimates the amount of protein being lost in the urine relative to urine creatinine. This helps distinguish true protein loss from changes caused by urine being more or less concentrated.
Is this the same as a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio?
No. The urine protein-to-creatinine ratio measures total urinary protein, while the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio specifically measures albumin. The albumin test may be more useful for evaluating kidney disease in some patients.
What can cause an unexpectedly high result?
A urinary infection, fever, recent strenuous exercise, dehydration, or muscle injury can temporarily increase protein in the urine. Your clinician may recommend repeating the test under different conditions if the result is unexpected.
  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