The Urea/Creatinine ratio (expressed on the clinical BUN:Cr scale of 10–20) distinguishes pre-renal from intrinsic renal causes of elevated kidney markers.
The Urea/Creatinine ratio (expressed on the clinical BUN:Cr scale of 10–20) distinguishes pre-renal from intrinsic renal causes of elevated kidney markers. High values indicate dehydration, GI bleeding, or high-protein intake; low values suggest liver disease or very low protein intake.
High: dehydration, upper GI bleeding, congestive heart failure, high-protein diet, catabolism, corticosteroids. Low: severe liver disease, malnutrition, SIADH, third-trimester pregnancy, dialysis.
High-ratio symptoms reflect dehydration: thirst, reduced urine output, dark urine, orthostatic dizziness. GI bleeding presents with melena or haematemesis.
Adequate hydration. Balanced protein intake without excess. Electrolyte-rich foods support hydration status.
Extreme high-protein diets (>2.5 g/kg/day) chronically elevate urea. Inadequate fluid intake relative to protein intake is a common trigger.
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every Pheno result is interpreted in context and reviewed by a physician.
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