Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)
This test measures the ratio of protein to creatinine in your urine. It helps assess how much protein is being lost in your kidneys over time.
["A simple urine test to check for kidney-related protein loss, often used in early kidney disease screening."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58400-3
- Short code
- Specimen pH acceptable Ur
- Synonyms
- Specimen pH acceptable Ur
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also used in routine check-ups for people at higher risk of kidney problems, such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure.
How the Test Works
A small urine sample is collected, and the protein and creatinine levels are compared. The ratio helps identify if protein is being lost in urine, which can indicate kidney damage or dysfunction.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative (yes/no) or semi-quantitative, meaning they indicate whether protein loss is present but not necessarily the exact amount. High ratios may signal kidney issues that need further evaluation.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Elevated protein in urine can occur due to kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions affecting the kidneys. False positives may occur with certain medications or infections.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio (qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What does a positive result mean?
How often should I get 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