: 24-Hour Urine Protein Excretion Rate

: What This Test Measures

: Over 24 hours, your kidneys filter waste from your blood while normally keeping most protein in the bloodstream. This test collects all the urine you produce in one day and measures the total protein in it, then reports the amount as a rate per unit of time. The result reflects how well your kidneys are holding onto protein.

: Why Your Doctor Ordered It

: Your clinician may order this test to check for kidney damage, monitor a known kidney condition, or evaluate symptoms such as foamy urine or swelling. It is often used when a simpler urine test suggests protein may be present, to confirm and quantify the amount.

: How the Collection Works

: You will be given a container to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after you discard your first morning urine. It is important to collect every sample, store the container as instructed (often cool), and return it to the lab promptly. Missing collections can make the result unreliable.

: What the Results Mean

: A higher protein rate generally indicates that more protein is passing through the kidneys than expected, which can point to kidney irritation or damage. Results are interpreted alongside your medical history, other urine and blood tests, and blood pressure. Your doctor will explain what your specific value means for you.