1. What is Calcium Creatinine Ratio?

The calcium creatinine ratio is a calculation used to assess calcium excretion in urine. It helps differentiate between various causes of hypercalciuria and is particularly useful in evaluating kidney stone formers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a simple formula:

Where:

• \( Ca \) — Calcium concentration (mg/dL)
• \( Cr \) — Creatinine concentration (mg/dL)

Explanation: The ratio normalizes urinary calcium excretion to creatinine excretion, accounting for variations in urine concentration.

3. Importance of Calcium Creatinine Ratio

Details: This ratio is important for evaluating calcium metabolism disorders, assessing risk of kidney stones, and monitoring treatment response in hypercalciuric patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both calcium and creatinine values in mg/dL. Both values must be valid (greater than 0). Typically measured from a spot urine sample.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal calcium creatinine ratio?
A: For adults, a ratio less than 0.14 mg/mg (or 140 mg/g) is generally considered normal. Higher values may indicate hypercalciuria.

Q2: When should this test be performed?
A: It's typically ordered when evaluating kidney stone formers, patients with bone diseases, or those with suspected calcium metabolism disorders.

Q3: Are there factors that affect the ratio?
A: Yes, diet, hydration status, time of collection, and certain medications can influence the results. First morning void is often preferred.

Q4: How does this differ from 24-hour urine collection?
A: The ratio from a spot urine sample correlates well with 24-hour excretion but is more convenient for screening purposes.

Q5: Are there age-specific reference ranges?
A: Yes, reference ranges vary by age, with higher values typically seen in children and decreasing with age.