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Protein Urine Rate (24-Hour Collection)

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

This test measures how much protein your urine contains over a full day. High protein levels in urine may indicate kidney problems or other conditions affecting how your body filters waste.

Quick summary

["Assesses kidney function and potential protein loss through urine over 24 hours."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58992-9
Short code
Prot 18h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
Prot 18h 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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect kidney disease, such as nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, or diabetes-related kidney damage. It can also help monitor conditions like proteinuria (excess protein in urine) or track responses to treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all urine for 24 hours, starting and ending with your first urine of the next day. Store samples in a refrigerator and return them to the lab on ice. Avoid certain medications (like NSAIDs) that may affect results.

How the Test Works

Your urine is analyzed to measure total protein content. The test quantifies how much protein is excreted daily, helping identify patterns of protein loss.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High protein levels may signal kidney damage, infections, or conditions like multiple myeloma. Low levels are less common but could indicate dehydration or certain metabolic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Protein in Urine

Frequently asked questions

How long does a 24-hour urine collection take?
You’ll need to collect urine for a full 24-hour period, which means tracking your urine output continuously. Some patients use a timer or reminder app to ensure accuracy.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally, but avoid high-protein foods or certain medications (like ibuprofen) that might affect results. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
What if I miss a urine sample during the collection?
If you miss any urine, you’ll need to restart the collection from the next morning’s first void. Skipping samples can skew results, so plan ahead to avoid gaps.
  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