1. What is the Protein Creatinine Ratio (PCR)?

The Protein Creatinine Ratio (PCR) is a clinical measurement used to assess proteinuria in pregnancy. It provides a more accurate and convenient alternative to 24-hour urine protein collection, particularly in perinatal care settings.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the PCR equation:

Where:

• \( Protein \) — Protein concentration in milligrams per liter (mg/L)
• \( Creatinine \) — Creatinine concentration in millimoles per liter (mmol/L)

Explanation: The ratio compares the amount of protein to creatinine in a random urine sample, providing a reliable estimate of protein excretion.

3. Importance of PCR Calculation in Perinatology

Details: PCR is particularly valuable in perinatal medicine for screening and monitoring proteinuria in pregnant women, which can indicate conditions such as preeclampsia. It offers a rapid and convenient method compared to 24-hour urine collections.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter protein concentration in mg/L and creatinine concentration in mmol/L from a random urine sample. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use PCR instead of 24-hour urine collection?
A: PCR provides a quicker, more convenient alternative that correlates well with 24-hour protein excretion and doesn't require complete urine collection.

Q2: What are normal PCR values in pregnancy?
A: Normal PCR in pregnancy is typically <30 mg/mmol. Values >30 mg/mmol may indicate significant proteinuria requiring further evaluation.

Q3: When should PCR be measured in pregnancy?
A: PCR is typically measured when there's clinical suspicion of preeclampsia, such as in women with hypertension, edema, or other concerning symptoms.

Q4: Are there limitations to PCR measurement?
A: PCR may be less accurate in cases of extremely diluted or concentrated urine, and in patients with conditions affecting creatinine excretion.

Q5: How does PCR compare to other proteinuria tests?
A: PCR has shown good correlation with 24-hour urine protein measurement and is generally preferred over dipstick testing for quantitative assessment.