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Protein Urine Rate (24-Hour Collection)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. Protein in urine can indicate kidney problems or other health conditions.

Quick summary

["Assessing kidney function and detecting protein loss over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26801-1
Short code
Prot 12h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
Prot 12h Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
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

Why This Test Matters

Protein in urine can sometimes appear in small amounts normally, but higher levels may signal kidney damage, diabetes, or other health issues. This test helps doctors track how well your kidneys are filtering waste and proteins from your blood.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all urine for a full 24 hours, typically starting after midnight and ending the same day the next morning. Store samples in a refrigerator to keep them fresh. Your doctor or lab technician will provide instructions to ensure accuracy.

How the Test Works

Your urine is tested for protein content using a method that measures the total protein excreted. The results are compared to a baseline to identify patterns of protein loss.

Common Causes of High or Low Results

Elevated protein levels may be due to kidney disease, diabetes, infections, or conditions like glomerulonephritis. Low or normal levels usually indicate healthy kidney function, though other factors (like diet) can influence results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urine protein level mean?
A high urine protein level may indicate kidney problems, such as nephrotic syndrome or kidney disease. It could also be linked to other conditions like diabetes or infections. Your doctor will discuss your results and any follow-up steps needed.
What if my urine protein test is normal?
A normal urine protein test usually means your kidneys are functioning well, but it doesn’t rule out all possible health issues. If you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or frequent infections, your doctor may recommend further testing.
Can diet affect urine protein levels?
Yes, diet can influence urine protein levels. High-protein diets or certain foods may temporarily increase protein excretion. Your doctor may advise dietary adjustments if protein loss is a concern, but they’ll also consider other factors like kidney health and overall health status.
  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