Correlation study between spot urine protein-to-creatinine ratio and 24-hour urine protein measurement in 174 patients for proteinuria assessment

Abstract

Background/Purpose: According to the US National Kidney Foundation K/DOQI Guidelines in 2000, under most circumstances, spot urine samples should be used to detect and monitor proteinuria in children and adults and timed collection is often unnecessary. However, its use is still not widely implemented in Hong Kong. We aimed to assess the correlation of spot urine protein-to-creatinine (Pr/Cr) ratio to 24-hour urine protein excretion in our local setting. Methods: This was a prospective study set in regional hospitals in Hong Kong. A total of 174 patients were recruited from 2007 to 2008. Spot urine Pr/Cr ratio and 24-hour urine protein measurements were determined. Linear regression model was used to fit and test the relationship between 24-hour urine protein excretion and the spot urine Pr/Cr ratio. Results: Spot urine Pr/Cr ratio correlated well with 24-hour urine protein excretion (r = 0.95, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Spot urine Pr/Cr ratio is a convenient, user-friendly and reliable method to replace 24-hour urine protein measurement for the assessment of proteinuria. © 2011, Hong Kong Society of Nephrology Ltd. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC. All rights reserved.