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PCR Equation:
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The Protein-To-Creatinine Ratio (PCR) is a clinical measurement used to assess proteinuria in urine samples. It provides a more accurate assessment of protein excretion than random urine protein measurements alone.
The calculator uses the PCR equation:
Where:
Explanation: The ratio corrects for urine concentration variability, providing a more reliable measure of protein excretion than protein concentration alone.
Details: PCR measurement is crucial for screening, diagnosing, and monitoring kidney diseases. It helps detect proteinuria, which is a key marker of kidney damage and cardiovascular risk.
Tips: Enter urine protein and creatinine concentrations in mg/dL. Both values must be valid (greater than 0). First morning void specimens are preferred for accurate results.
Q1: What is a normal PCR value?
A: Normal PCR is typically less than 150 mg/g. Values between 150-500 mg/g indicate microalbuminuria, while values above 500 mg/g suggest overt proteinuria.
Q2: Why multiply by 100 in the formula?
A: Multiplying by 100 converts the ratio to milligrams per gram (mg/g), which is the standard unit for reporting PCR results.
Q3: When should PCR be measured?
A: PCR should be measured when screening for kidney disease, monitoring known kidney conditions, or evaluating patients with diabetes, hypertension, or other risk factors for kidney damage.
Q4: Are there limitations to PCR measurement?
A: PCR may be less accurate in individuals with very high or very low muscle mass, as creatinine excretion correlates with muscle mass. Extremely dilute or concentrated urine samples may also affect accuracy.
Q5: How does PCR compare to 24-hour urine collection?
A: PCR provides a reliable estimate of daily protein excretion and is more convenient than 24-hour urine collections, which are prone to collection errors and are more burdensome for patients.