Special Precautions/Comments:

Additional Information:

Only small amounts of protein are usually found in the urine because proteins are too large to pass through the glomerulus of the kidney. Increased amounts of protein in the urine (proteinuria) indicate inappropriate loss and possible kidney damage. Urine protein is reported as a protein creatinine ratio (PCR). Although a urine dipstick is useful for screening, laboratory measurement of urine protein is much more sensitive.  

Proteinuria is screened for in pregnancy and in diabetes to check renal function. Urine PCR may be elevated in nephrotic syndrome and in multiple myeloma (Bence Jones protein). Urine microalbumin creatine ratio (ACR) is usually preferred for the investigation and staging of chronic kidney disease (CKD).