24-Hour Urinary Protein Quantification (Total Protein)
This test measures the total amount of protein excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess kidney function and detect protein loss, which can indicate conditions like kidney disease or other health concerns.
["This test helps track kidney health by checking for protein in urine over a full day."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101667-4
- Short code
- M Protein 24h Ur Ql MS.MALDI-TOF
- Synonyms
- M Protein 24h Ur Ql MS.MALDI-TOF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ms-maldi-tof
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet; frequent urination; or if you have a history of kidney problems. It’s also used to monitor kidney function in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions that can affect the kidneys.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine for a full 24 hours, typically in a special container. The collected urine is then sent to a lab to measure the total protein content. This provides a clearer picture of protein loss compared to a single urine sample.
Sample Collection
To prepare, empty your bladder before starting and discard the first urine of the day. Collect every urine sample in the container for the next 24 hours, including during sleep. Label the container with your name and the date. Avoid using any medications or foods that might affect protein levels unless instructed otherwise.
What to Expect
The test is usually painless and takes about a day to complete. You may need to return to a clinic or pharmacy to pick up the collection container. Follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you to ensure accurate results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High protein levels in urine (proteinuria) can signal kidney damage or disease, such as glomerulonephritis or diabetic nephropathy. Persistent protein loss may require further evaluation to identify the cause and guide treatment. Low protein levels are less commonly significant but may warrant investigation for underlying conditions.
Short name
24h Urinary Protein
Frequently asked questions
How often should I collect urine for this test?
What should I do if I miss a urine sample during the collection period?
Can I take medications or eat certain foods before 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