Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (24-hour collection)
This test measures the amount of protein and creatinine in your urine over 24 hours to help assess kidney function and detect protein loss.
["Helps identify kidney damage or conditions like kidney disease by tracking protein in urine over a full day."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108494-6
- Short code
- PPA Msmt Ur
- Synonyms
- PPA Msmt Ur
- 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 Matters for Kidney Health
Protein in urine can signal kidney problems, even when blood tests don’t show obvious signs. This test simplifies monitoring by comparing protein levels to creatinine, which stays stable in urine. It’s especially useful for detecting early kidney damage or chronic kidney disease (CKD).
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after urinating at midnight. The sample is then analyzed to measure protein and creatinine levels. The ratio helps doctors assess kidney function without relying on single blood tests alone.
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or high blood pressure. It’s also used in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease to monitor kidney health over time.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you’ll need a clean container to collect all urine for 24 hours. Drink enough fluids to produce urine consistently, but avoid excessive amounts. If you forget to collect urine, your doctor may adjust the test timing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24-Hour Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
A high protein-to-creatinine ratio may indicate kidney damage, proteinuria (protein in urine), or conditions like glomerulonephritis or diabetic nephropathy. A normal ratio suggests healthy kidney function, but repeated tests are needed for long-term monitoring.
What does a high or low ratio mean?
Can I take medications before the 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