[Batgirl]

Significance of protein-creatinine ratio?

by Batgirl on Mon Mar 12, 2018 4:06 pm

Hello,

If you have MGUS (or multiple myeloma), is a protein-creatinine ratio of 80 significant in any way?

I've searched and searched and can't find an answer.

My husband is IgG kappa with M-protein at 20 g/l (2.0 g/dL) and free light chain ratio of 14.5.

That is all the information we have so far. I understand that the M-spike of 20 would indicate MGUS. We are awaiting the results of skeletal survey and MRI.

Thanks for help in understanding all this!

[Multibilly]

Re: Significance of protein-creatinine ratio?

by Multibilly on Mon Mar 12, 2018 7:39 pm

Hi Batgirl,

You didn't say if the ratio came from a random spot urine sample test or from a 24-hour urine test (where you collect your urine for 24 hours). There are different reference ranges depending on which kind of urine test you had. Also, reference ranges can vary from lab to lab. So, the best thing to do would be to look at your test results and see if the ratio value of 80 is in range based on the reference range listed next to the test result.

Having said that, a ratio value of 80 would "likely" be in the normal range for both a spot and 24-hour urine test. But it wouldn't be unusual for your protein/creatinine ratio to be slightly high since you are producing a modest amount of excess free light chains (which are a kind of protein), which in turn are likely spilling over into your urine.