Skip to content

Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio, Turbidimetric

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

A urine test measuring protein relative to creatinine to help evaluate protein loss through the kidneys.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine whether an abnormal amount of protein is being lost in your urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111089-9
Short code
Prot/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Prot/Creat Msmt 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?

A urine protein-to-creatinine ratio compares the amount of protein in your urine with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is produced naturally by your muscles and is released at a fairly steady rate, so the ratio helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to screen for or monitor kidney damage, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or another condition that can affect the kidneys. It can also help assess protein loss during pregnancy when clinically appropriate.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected, and the protein level is measured using a turbidimetric method. Creatinine is measured separately, and the laboratory calculates the protein-to-creatinine ratio from the two results.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about the type of urine collection, such as a first-morning or random sample. If instructed to collect urine at home, use the provided sterile container and follow the laboratory's clean-catch directions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine protein-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does a high urine protein-to-creatinine ratio always mean I have kidney disease?
No. Persistent elevation can suggest kidney disease, but infection, fever, exercise, and other temporary factors may also increase the result. Your clinician will interpret it in the context of your other kidney tests.
Why is the result reported as a ratio?
Urine can vary from very dilute to very concentrated. Comparing protein with creatinine provides a more reliable estimate of protein loss than a protein concentration alone.
Is this the same as a 24-hour urine protein test?
No. A urine protein-to-creatinine ratio is usually calculated from a single urine sample, while a 24-hour urine protein test measures the total protein released over an entire day.
  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