1. What is Protein Creatinine Ratio?

The Protein Creatinine Ratio (PCR) is a simple test that measures the amount of protein in urine compared to the amount of creatinine. It's used to estimate proteinuria and monitor kidney function.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Protein Creatinine Ratio formula:

Where:

• Urine Protein — Protein concentration in urine (mg/dL)
• Urine Creatinine — Creatinine concentration in urine (mg/dL)

Explanation: The ratio corrects for urine concentration, providing a more reliable measure of protein excretion than random urine protein measurements alone.

3. Importance of PCR Calculation

Details: PCR is important for detecting and monitoring proteinuria, which can indicate kidney damage. It's more convenient than 24-hour urine collections and has good correlation with 24-hour protein excretion.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both urine protein and urine creatinine values in mg/dL. Both values must be greater than zero for calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal PCR value?
A: Normal PCR is typically less than 0.2 mg/mg (or 200 mg/g). Values between 0.2-3.5 may indicate moderate proteinuria, while values above 3.5 suggest nephrotic-range proteinuria.

Q2: How does PCR compare to 24-hour urine protein?
A: PCR correlates well with 24-hour protein excretion. A PCR of 1 mg/mg roughly equals 1 gram of protein per day in 24-hour urine.

Q3: When should PCR be measured?
A: PCR is useful for initial evaluation of proteinuria and for monitoring patients with known kidney disease. First morning void is preferred.

Q4: Are there limitations to PCR?
A: PCR may be less accurate in very dilute or concentrated urine, in patients with very low or high muscle mass, and in children.

Q5: Should PCR be used for all patients?
A: While PCR is convenient, some patients may still require 24-hour urine collections for precise quantification, especially if PCR results are borderline or inconsistent with clinical findings.