24-Hour Urinary Protein Catabolic Rate (PCR)
This test measures how much protein your body breaks down and excretes over 24 hours through urine. It helps assess kidney function and protein metabolism.
["This test helps evaluate kidney health and protein loss over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93746-6
- Short code
- Protein catabolic rate 24h Ur-mRate
- Synonyms
- Protein catabolic rate 24h Ur-mRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82670
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order a 24-hour urinary protein catabolic rate test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or signs of kidney problems. It may also be used to monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, or protein-losing gastrointestinal disorders.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine over a full 24-hour period in a special container. The test measures the total protein lost in urine, which is then used to calculate your protein catabolic rate. This helps determine how much protein your body is breaking down and losing.
Sample Collection Tips
To get accurate results, collect all urine for 24 hours, including midnight urine. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid foods high in protein (like meat, dairy) unless instructed otherwise. Store urine in a cool place and return it to your lab on the same day.
What to Expect
The test involves simple urine collection. You’ll receive instructions on timing and storage. No special preparation is needed beyond following the collection guidelines. Results are typically reported as a rate (e.g., grams per day).
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
24h Urinary Protein Catabolic Rate
Frequently asked questions
A higher than expected rate may indicate kidney disease, excessive protein loss, or other metabolic disorders. A lower rate may suggest malnutrition or muscle wasting. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How long will I need to collect urine for this test?
Can I eat or drink anything special before this 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