Spot Urine Protein to Creatinine Ratio in Patients with Urinary Tract Infection

IntroductionUntreated urinary tract infections (UTIs) can lead to complications, including renal deterioration due to upper urinary tract involvement. Proteinuria, characterized by excessive protein in the urine, is often indicative of kidney damage. The protein-to-creatinine ratio (P/C ratio) test is a convenient and reliable method for assessing proteinuria. This study aimed to evaluate the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) in UTI patients and its association with renal impairment. Materials and MethodsEighty patients with confirmed UTI and suspected proteinuria were recruited. Urine screening included pyuria (white blood cell presence) as an initial indicator of UTI, followed by microscopic examination of centrifuged urinary sediments. The urine supernatant was analyzed for protein using the urine strip method. ResultsAfter applying exclusion criteria, forty-six patients (n=46) were included in the statistical analysis. Of these, 26% had normal proteinuria (<15 mg/mM Cr), 35% had moderate proteinuria (15-50 mg/mM Cr), and 39% exhibited severe proteinuria (>50 mg/mM Cr). Patients were categorized into three stages (I, II, and III) with mean creatinine excretion values of 33.9 {+/-} 13.9 mg/dL, 31.2 {+/-} 17.2 mg/dL, and 29 {+/-} 13.6 mg/dL, respectively, all significantly below the reference interval (168 {+/-} 132 mg/dL). ConclusionIncreased urinary protein excretion correlates with heightened risk of renal complications, a leading factor in mortality. Urinary protein excretion was markedly elevated in Stage III patients. The P/C ratio proved to be a more accurate diagnostic marker within the urine profile, highlighting proteinuria in UTI patients as a potential risk factor for renal impairment.