A tool used to assess the ratio of calcium to creatinine in a urine sample provides valuable information about potential kidney stone formation and other metabolic disorders. This calculation, often presented as milligrams of calcium per gram of creatinine, helps standardize the calcium concentration based on urine dilution. For instance, a result might indicate 200 mg of calcium per gram of creatinine.
Evaluating this relationship offers a more accurate assessment of calcium excretion compared to measuring urinary calcium alone, as it accounts for variations in urine concentration throughout the day. This method improves diagnostic accuracy and can contribute to earlier detection of conditions like hypercalciuria, a major risk factor for kidney stones. The historical development of this diagnostic tool reflects an ongoing refinement in understanding calcium metabolism and kidney function.
