Alpha-1 Globulin, 24-Hour Urine — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction
A 24-hour urine test that measures the alpha-1 globulin protein fraction using electrophoresis to help evaluate urinary protein loss.
["This test measures alpha-1 globulin in urine collected over 24 hours; an elevated result may suggest impaired kidney tubular handling of proteins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72592-9
- Short code
- Alpha1 Glob 24h MFr.DF Ur Elph
- Synonyms
- Alpha1 Glob 24h MFr.DF Ur Elph
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Alpha-1 globulin is one of the protein fractions found in blood and urine. This test measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction in urine collected for 24 hours using electrophoresis, a laboratory method that separates proteins.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered to investigate increased urinary protein loss, especially when results suggest that the kidneys' small filtering tubes are not reabsorbing proteins normally. It may also be used alongside other urine and blood tests to evaluate conditions affecting the kidneys, liver, or protein-processing pathways.
How is the test performed?
You collect all urine produced during a full 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. The labeled container is then submitted for electrophoresis, and the alpha-1 globulin fraction is measured and interpreted with the rest of the urine protein results.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the laboratory's collection instructions exactly, including the start time, end time, container type, and any refrigeration requirements. Record when collection began and ended, and mention any missed collections, medication changes, or illness to your healthcare professional.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An increased urinary alpha-1 globulin result may indicate reduced reabsorption of small proteins by the kidney tubules, which can occur with certain kidney disorders. Patterns of urinary protein fractions may also reflect inflammation or changes in liver protein production. Results should be interpreted with the urine collection information and other kidney or liver tests because an isolated abnormality is not diagnostic.
Short name
24-Hour Urine Alpha-1 Globulin
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for this test?
How is a 24-hour urine collection completed?
Does one abnormal result mean I have kidney disease?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy