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Urine Total Calcium-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures urine calcium relative to urine creatinine, helping assess calcium excretion while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps identify unusually high or low calcium excretion."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12534-4
Short code
TTCA/Creat Ur
Synonyms
TTCA/Creat 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?

The urine total calcium-to-creatinine ratio compares the amount of calcium in a urine sample with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a reference because urine concentration and dilution can vary.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate calcium excretion, including in people with kidney stones, high blood calcium, or symptoms or conditions that may affect calcium metabolism. It can also help monitor certain treatments.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested for calcium and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates the calcium-to-creatinine ratio. This is commonly measured using a spot urine sample, although the collection method may vary.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare professional about when and how to collect the urine. You may be asked to provide a first-morning or clean-catch sample, and changes in calcium intake or vitamin D supplements should be reported.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher-than-expected ratio may indicate increased urinary calcium loss, which can occur with kidney stones, high blood calcium, excess calcium intake, or parathyroid and kidney disorders. A lower ratio may reflect low calcium intake, reduced bone mineralization, or impaired calcium absorption. Interpretation depends on age, hydration, collection timing, medications, and other laboratory results.

Short name

Urine calcium/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is creatinine included in this urine test?
Creatinine helps account for how concentrated or diluted the urine is. This makes the calcium-to-creatinine ratio easier to compare across samples.
Does an abnormal result mean I have kidney stones?
No. An abnormal ratio can have several causes and does not diagnose kidney stones by itself. Your healthcare professional will interpret it with your symptoms, history, and other tests.
Do I need to collect urine for a specific amount of time?
The collection method depends on the test order. A single urine sample is often used, but a timed collection may be requested in some situations.
  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