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Total Protein in Urine

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Total protein in urine measures the amount of protein excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period, which is crucial for assessing kidney function.

Quick summary

This biomarker assesses kidney health by measuring protein levels in urine.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
mg/day
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Urine Protein, Abbott Urine Protein
interpretation: {"text":"0–150 mg/day: Indicates normal kidney function and no significant protein loss.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":">150 mg/day: Suggests potential kidney damage or disease, requiring further evaluation.","label":"Elevated"}

Total protein in urine, also known as proteinuria, is a key indicator of kidney health. It reflects the kidney's ability to filter waste and maintain necessary proteins in the bloodstream.

Normally, only a small amount of protein is present in urine. However, elevated levels can indicate kidney damage or disease, such as glomerulonephritis or diabetic nephropathy.

Measuring total protein in urine is essential for early detection and monitoring of kidney disorders, helping to guide treatment strategies and prevent further kidney damage.

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated protein levels in urine?
Elevated protein levels can be caused by conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney infections, or autoimmune diseases.
How is the test for total protein in urine performed?
The test typically involves collecting all urine produced over a 24-hour period, which is then analyzed in a laboratory.
  1. 1
    American Kidney Fund: ProteinuriaSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic: Urine Protein TestSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy