Urine Protein Test
A urine protein test checks for protein in the urine and may be used to screen for or monitor kidney disease. The result may be confirmed with repeat or quantitative testing.
["Protein in the urine can be a sign of kidney disease, but temporary or mild causes may also produce an abnormal result."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90989-5
- Short code
- HEDIS 2019 Urine Prot Tests
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2019 Urine Prot Tests
- Category
- urine
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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?
A urine protein test looks for protein in a sample of urine. The kidneys normally prevent significant amounts of protein from passing into urine, so increased urinary protein may suggest changes in kidney function or another condition.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered as part of a kidney evaluation or to monitor people with conditions that can affect the kidneys, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. It may also help assess certain urinary or systemic illnesses.
How is the test performed?
A urine sample is collected and tested in the laboratory. A dipstick may provide a quick screening result, while laboratory measurement can quantify total protein. Your clinician may also order a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio to evaluate kidney-related protein loss more specifically.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Avoid vigorous exercise, fever, and major dehydration before collection when possible, because these factors can temporarily increase urinary protein. Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, have a urinary tract infection, or have recently started new medicines.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Increased urine protein may be associated with kidney disease, especially with diabetes or high blood pressure, but it can also occur temporarily. A positive dipstick result is not always diagnostic of chronic kidney disease and may need confirmation with repeat testing or more specific urine measurements. Your clinician should interpret the result alongside kidney function tests, symptoms, medications, and medical history.
Short name
Urine protein test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive urine protein test mean?
Is this the same as a urine albumin test?
Do I need to repeat the 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