24-Hour Free Protein Urine Rate
This test measures the amount of protein that appears in your urine over a 24-hour period without being bound to other substances.
["Assesses kidney function by detecting protein loss in urine, which may signal kidney damage or disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51406-7
- Short code
- UFLC24
- Synonyms
- BJ Protein Free 24h Ur-mRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- 24-hour urine collection container without preservative (refrigerated during collection)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1
- Ref high
- 4
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Nephelometry
- CPT
- 83521
- SNOMED
- 104686001
- Specimen volume
- Complete 24-hour urine collection (minimum 10 mL aliquot)
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): up to 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or blood in the urine. It helps identify conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or other protein-related kidney problems.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll collect all urine for 24 hours in a special container. Drink plenty of water but avoid foods that may affect urine color (e.g., beets, berries). Report any medications or supplements you’re taking to your provider.
How the Test Works
Urine samples are analyzed to measure free protein levels. The test quantifies how much protein is excreted daily, which can indicate kidney function or hidden protein loss.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Higher-than-normal results may suggest kidney issues, such as nephrotic syndrome or early kidney damage. Lower-than-normal results might not indicate a problem unless combined with other symptoms.
Reference range
Kappa free light chains: <50 mg/24h; Lambda free light chains: <25 mg/24h; Kappa/Lambda ratio: 1.0-4.0N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should maintain normal hydration and dietary habits during the 24-hour collection period.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated free protein in urine can signal kidney problems, including glomerular diseases or systemic conditions like diabetes. It’s a key diagnostic tool for monitoring kidney health and guiding treatment decisions.
Short name
Free Protein Urine Rate
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated protein in urine?
How often should this test be repeated?
Can diet affect this test?
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