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Urine Protein Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A urine test that checks for protein, which can help assess kidney health, particularly in people with diabetes or other risk factors for kidney disease.

Quick summary

["Protein in the urine may be a sign of kidney disease, but an abnormal result usually needs follow-up testing."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
94142-7
Short code
HEDIS 2020 Urine Prot Tests
Synonyms
HEDIS 2020 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 measures the presence or amount of protein in your urine. Normally, only a small amount of protein is released, so increased urine protein can be an early sign of kidney damage.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to screen for or monitor kidney disease, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or an autoimmune condition. It may also be ordered to evaluate swelling or other symptoms that could be related to the kidneys.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample, usually a clean-catch, midstream sample. The laboratory uses a test strip or laboratory analysis to detect and, depending on the test, measure urine protein. Your clinician may also request a ratio that compares urine protein with urine creatinine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician or laboratory's collection instructions. You may be asked to collect a first-morning or clean-catch midstream sample. Tell the healthcare team if you recently exercised, had a fever, or have a urinary tract infection, because these can temporarily affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine protein testing

Frequently asked questions

Does a urine protein test diagnose kidney disease?
No. It can indicate a possible problem, but other tests and your medical history are needed to determine the cause.
Why is urine protein checked in people with diabetes?
Kidney damage can begin without obvious symptoms, and increased urine protein may be an early sign. Regular testing helps clinicians monitor kidney health over time.
Can exercise or illness affect the result?
Yes. Strenuous exercise, fever, infection, and dehydration can temporarily increase urine protein, so your clinician may repeat the test when these conditions are present.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy