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24-Hour Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures protein and creatinine in a 24-hour urine collection to assess how much protein the kidneys are excreting.

Quick summary

["An elevated urine protein-to-creatinine ratio can indicate kidney disease or another cause of protein in the urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44351-5
Short code
PETN/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
PETN/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
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 the amount of protein and creatinine in urine collected for 24 hours. The results may be reported as a protein-to-creatinine ratio, which helps show whether an abnormal amount of protein is being lost in the urine.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order it to evaluate kidney function or investigate protein in the urine. It may be used when monitoring conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or known kidney disease.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, usually in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory then measures the protein and creatinine concentrations and may calculate their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and record the start and end times. Urine is often refrigerated during the collection period. Do not change your diet or medication use unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An increased protein-to-creatinine ratio may indicate that the kidneys are leaking more protein than expected. Possible causes include diabetic or high-blood-pressure kidney disease, other kidney disorders, inflammation, or conditions affecting the urinary tract. Interpretation depends on the laboratory's reference range and your overall health history.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
A single urine sample can vary throughout the day. Collecting all urine for 24 hours provides a more complete measurement of daily protein and creatinine excretion.
What if I miss part of the collection?
Tell the laboratory or your clinician when and how much was missed. Depending on the collection method, you may need to repeat the test.
Does an abnormal result always mean I have kidney disease?
No. An abnormal result can have several causes and should be interpreted alongside other urine tests, blood tests, medications, and your medical history.
  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