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Calculated Protein Catabolic Rate Adjusted for Body Weight

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

This test measures how efficiently your body breaks down proteins, adjusted to account for your weight. It helps assess protein metabolism and nutritional status.

Quick summary

This test helps doctors evaluate how well your body uses proteins and identify potential nutritional or metabolic issues.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70959-2
Short code
PROTEINCATABOLICRATEADJUSTEDFORBODYWEIGHT
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
calculated
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Protein Catabolic Rate (PCR)?

Protein catabolic rate (PCR) reflects how much protein your body converts into energy or other essential compounds. When adjusted for body weight, it provides a clearer picture of protein breakdown efficiency, especially useful in patients with varying weights or metabolic conditions.

Why Is This Test Adjusted for Body Weight?

Adjusting for body weight normalizes the measurement so it reflects protein metabolism relative to your size. For example, a person with a higher body weight may naturally break down more protein than someone with less weight, so the adjusted value helps compare results fairly across individuals.

How Is This Test Performed?

This test is a calculated value derived from blood tests that measure protein breakdown products, such as creatinine or urea, over time. Your doctor may use a 24-hour urine collection or blood samples to estimate protein catabolism and then adjust the result for your body weight.

Who Might Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test for patients with conditions affecting protein metabolism, such as kidney disease, malnutrition, severe burns, or those undergoing dialysis. It can also help monitor nutritional support, muscle wasting, or responses to treatments like dialysis or protein supplements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PCR (Body Weight-Adjusted)

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition and treatment plan. Your doctor will determine how often to check this test based on your needs, such as monitoring kidney function, nutritional status, or response to therapy.
What do my test results mean?
Results show how efficiently your body breaks down proteins. Lower-than-expected values may indicate poor nutrition, kidney issues, or excessive protein loss, while higher-than-expected values could signal overbreakdown (e.g., from illness or stress). Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Can I change my diet to affect this test?
Yes, diet plays a role. Eating a balanced protein intake can support normal protein metabolism. However, sudden changes should be discussed with your doctor, especially if you have kidney disease or other health conditions, to avoid unintended effects.
  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