protein in urine

Question
I am a 60 year old female with lupus.  Received results of various test and the Doctor said everything was fine.  At home I saw that my total protein was 20.0 mg/dl range of 0.0-15.0 and creatinine was 345.6 mg/dl range 15.0-278.  The protein/creat ratio was 58 mg/g range 0-200.  Should I be concerned, how can the Doctor say everything is fine when I am excreting protein?


Answer
Hi Patti,



Thanks for your question on "Allexperts".



Protein/creatinine ratios for follow up must always be viewed in light of earlier results. What were your earlier values?



Your results show that you are excreting about 58 mg of albumin in your urine in 24 hours. This value, although higher than 20, still falls in the microalbuminuria range.



If you are on medication for lupus, I do not see a need to be alarmed.



Sincerely,



Dr. Shah