Protein in Urine (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of protein found in your urine, which can help identify kidney issues or other health conditions.
["Protein in urine may signal kidney problems or other health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87835-5
- Short code
- M Protein Ur IFE-mCnc
- Synonyms
- M Protein Ur IFE-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immunofixation
- 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 Might Be Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or blood in your urine. It’s also used to check for kidney disease, diabetes, or other conditions that can affect how your body filters waste products from your blood.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to collect a urine sample at home or bring a sample to a lab. If you’re using certain medications or have dietary restrictions, let your provider know.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal protein levels in urine can indicate problems like kidney disease, diabetes, or infections. Lower-than-normal levels may not be concerning unless your provider suspects a specific condition.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Proteinuria can be caused by kidney problems (such as glomerulonephritis), diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, or certain medications. Some conditions, like pregnancy or exercise, may also temporarily increase protein in urine.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated protein levels in urine are often a red flag for kidney damage or dysfunction. Early detection can help manage conditions like chronic kidney disease, preventing complications like fluid buildup, high blood pressure, or heart problems. Your provider will use these results along with other tests to guide treatment.
Short name
Proteinuria (Mass Concentration)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high protein level in urine mean?
Can diet affect protein levels in urine?
When should I ask my doctor about 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