protein-in-urine
Reviewed
Also called: urine protein, 24-hour urine protein, urine total protein, reagent strip urinalysis
A protein in urine test measures how much protein is in your urine. Normally, very little protein is present. A large amount may indicate a kidney problem.
Specimen: urine
Why this test may be ordered
- as part of a routine checkup
- to monitor a condition affecting the kidneys
- if you have symptoms of kidney disease such as swelling in hands/feet, foamy urine, fatigue, or changes in urination
- if you have a high risk for kidney disease due to diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, family history, or certain medications
Preparation and collection
No special preparations needed. For a 24-hour urine sample, you will receive a special container and instructions.
You will need to provide a urine sample, often using the clean catch method. For a 24-hour sample, collect all urine over a 24-hour period.
There is no known risk to having a urinalysis or a protein in urine test.
Understanding results
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider. The following patterns are based on the source.
- Negative (normal amount of protein): Your urine did not contain too much protein when tested. Limitation: A single negative result does not rule out intermittent proteinuria. Next step: Routine
- High protein level (proteinuria): A large amount of protein was found in your urine sample. This does not always mean you have a medical problem needing treatment. Short-term causes include strenuous exercise, dehydration, diet, stress, or pregnancy. Limitation: A single high result may be temporary. Persistent high protein is likely a sign of kidney disease or kidney damage from other conditions. Next step: Your provider may recommend other urinalysis tests to see if the high protein level continues over time. If it remains high, more tests are needed to diagnose the cause.
- A single high result may be temporary and not indicate a chronic condition.
- Persistent high protein requires further testing to diagnose the underlying cause.
- At-home test kits are available and can provide accurate results if instructions are followed carefully.
What to do next
To learn what your results mean, talk with your provider.
- What is my risk for kidney disease?
- Do I need to repeat this test?
- What other tests might I need?