UPCR Test - (Urine Protein Creatinine Ratio)

What Does the Protein/Creatinine Ratio Measure?

This test provides valuable information about your kidney health by measuring specific substances in your urine:

• Protein levels: Detects albumin and other proteins that shouldn't normally be present in large amounts in urine.
• Creatinine levels: Measure this waste product that your body produces at a steady rate from muscle breakdown.
• Protein-to-creatinine ratio: Calculates how much protein is being lost relative to creatinine, giving a standardised measurement.
• Kidney filtration function: Assesses whether your kidneys are properly preventing protein from leaking into urine.
• Early kidney damage: Identifies potential kidney problems before other symptoms appear.

Proteins/Creatinine Ratio: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience symptoms that suggest kidney problems:

• Swelling in your eyes, hands, feet, or face (oedema)
• Foamy or bubbly urine appearance
• Frequent urination, especially at nighttime
• Unexplained tiredness or feeling unwell
• Loss of appetite and nausea
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Changes in urine colour or odour

Who Should Get a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio?

This test is important for several groups of people who may benefit from kidney health monitoring:

• People with diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2) who are at higher risk of kidney complications
• Individuals with high blood pressure can damage the kidney blood vessels over time.
• Those with a family history of kidney disease or related health conditions.
• Adults aged 60 or older, as kidney function naturally declines with age.
• Overweight individuals who are facing an increased risk of diabetes and kidney problems
• Patients with autoimmune diseases like lupus, which can affect kidney function.
• People taking certain medications may potentially harm their kidneys.

Why Is a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Done?

The proteins/creatinine ratio is performed to screen for, diagnose, and monitor kidney damage in its earliest stages. This allows doctors to start treatment early to slow or prevent further kidney damage before you feel unwell.

Importance of a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio

The proteins/creatinine ratio holds significant clinical value for maintaining your kidney health. This test can detect kidney damage years before other signs of kidney failure appear, making it crucial for early intervention. Unlike the traditional 24-hour urine collection, this test provides reliable results from a single, convenient urine sample.

The test helps doctors monitor your kidney function over time and assess whether treatments for conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure are working effectively. Additionally, protein levels in urine serve as strong predictors of kidney disease progression and cardiovascular risk.

Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the 'Proteins/Creatinine Ratio', choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a urine test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for the Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Available Near You?

Yes, home sample collection for the proteins/creatinine ratio test is widely available across India through Metropolis Healthcare. Our trained professionals visit your home at your preferred time, ensuring safe and hygienic sample collection using proper protocols. With our 10,000+ touchpoints nationwide, you get accurate testing and trusted service right from the comfort of your home.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Report?

Reports are usually available within 6 hours once the sample reaches the lab.
Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location

Where Can I See or Get the Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting the Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Results

The following table helps you understand what your proteins/creatinine ratio results may indicate:

Conditions that May Affect Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Accuracy

Several factors can influence your proteins/creatinine ratio results and should be discussed with your healthcare provider:

• Intense physical exercise within 24 hours before testing can temporarily increase protein levels in urine.
• Urinary tract infections may cause elevated protein readings due to inflammation.
• Severe dehydration can affect the concentration of substances in your urine sample.
• Pregnancy can naturally increase protein levels in urine, especially in later stages.
• High fever or acute illness may temporarily affect kidney function and protein excretion.
• Certain medications, including some blood pressure medicines and pain relievers, can influence results.
• Recent consumption of large amounts of protein-rich foods may slightly affect readings.

How Is a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Done?

The test for the proteins/creatinine ratio procedure is simple and non-invasive:

• You receive a sterile, leak-proof container from the healthcare provider or laboratory.
• Clean your genital area thoroughly with soap and water before sample collection.
• Begin urinating into the toilet, then collect the middle portion of your urine stream in the container.
• Avoid touching the inside of the container or allowing the container to touch your body.
• Collect approximately 10 ml of urine, which is sufficient for accurate testing.
• A phlebotomist will label the tightly sealed container with your name and collection time.
• Analysis performed using immunoturbidimetry for total protein and enzymatic method for creatinine estimation.

How Should You Prepare for a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio?

Test preparation for the proteins/creatinine ratio is straightforward:

• No fasting required; you can eat and drink normally before providing your urine sample.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the test, as it can temporarily increase protein levels.
• Stay normally hydrated by drinking adequate water, but avoid excessive fluid intake immediately before testing.
• Inform your doctor about medications, including prescription drugs, vitamins, and supplements you're taking.
• Collect first-morning urine if possible, as it provides the most concentrated and accurate sample.
• Maintain normal daily activities unless your healthcare provider gives specific instructions otherwise.

Diseases that a Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Can Help Detect

The proteins/creatinine ratio serves as an important screening tool for various kidney-related health conditions:

• Diabetic nephropathy: Kidney damage caused by long-term diabetes complications
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD): Gradual loss of kidney function over time
• Hypertensive nephropathy: Kidney damage resulting from prolonged high blood pressure
• Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli)
• Lupus nephritis: Kidney inflammation associated with autoimmune lupus disease
• Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic condition causing cysts to form in the kidneys
• Kidney stones: Mineral deposits that can cause kidney damage if left untreated
• Cardiovascular disease risk: Elevated protein levels indicate increased heart disease risk.

Proteins/Creatinine Ratio/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

We offer comprehensive testing options that include the proteins/creatinine ratio, along with related health assessments:

Proteins/Creatinine Ratio Prices in Different Cities

The cost of a proteins/creatinine ratio test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities.

References -
Microalbuminuria and Potential Confounders. Diabetes Care, Volume 18, No 4, April 1995.
Does the albumin:creatinine ratio lack clinical utility in predicting microalbuminuria? BC Medical Journal Vol. 48 No. 8, October 2006