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24-Hour Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures protein relative to creatinine in urine collected for 24 hours, helping assess urinary protein loss while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test helps detect and monitor excess urinary protein, which can be a sign of kidney disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40486-3
Short code
Prot/Creat 24h Ur-Rto
Synonyms
Prot/Creat 24h Ur-Rto
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 relative to the amount of creatinine in a 24-hour urine collection. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine concentration can vary throughout the day.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to screen for or monitor kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or conditions that can cause protein to leak into the urine. It may also be used to follow response to treatment.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, usually in a labeled container provided by the laboratory or clinic. The collection is then analyzed to calculate the protein-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions carefully, including the start and end times and how to store the container. Unless you are told otherwise, continue your usual diet and medication routine, and note any illness or missed collections.

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

Does this test require a blood sample?
No. It is performed using urine collected over a 24-hour period.
What happens if some urine is missed during the collection?
A missed collection can make the result less accurate. Tell the clinic if you were unable to collect all urine for the full period.
What if the result is abnormal?
Your clinician may review the result with other tests, such as creatinine, albumin, or urine microscopy, to determine the cause and whether follow-up is needed.
  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