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Protein and Glucose in Urine (Qualitative Strip Test)

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

This test checks for the presence of protein or glucose in your urine using a dipstick method. It’s often used as an initial screening tool to detect conditions like diabetes or kidney problems.

Quick summary

["A simple urine test to spot early signs of diabetes or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45060-1
Short code
Prot + Glucose Pnl Ur Strip
Synonyms
Prot + Glucose Pnl Ur Strip
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
70
Ref high
100
Critical range
50 N/A – 400 N/A
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
test-strip
CPT
82947
SNOMED
260395008
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

How the Test Works

A small sample of your urine is placed on a special strip that contains chemical reagents. When the urine touches the strip, it reacts to detect protein or glucose. Color changes on the strip indicate whether these substances are present.

What the Results May Mean

A positive result for glucose suggests high blood sugar, which may indicate diabetes or poor blood sugar control. A positive protein result may signal kidney damage or other health issues. However, false positives can occur, so follow-up testing may be needed.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results

Glucose in urine is most commonly linked to diabetes, where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar. Protein in urine can indicate kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or other conditions affecting kidney function.

When You Might Need This Test

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight changes, or if you have a family history of diabetes or kidney disease.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Protein-Glucose Screen

Frequently asked questions

Why might my urine test show glucose but my blood sugar is normal?
Glucose in urine can appear even when blood sugar is normal due to factors like dehydration, certain medications, or kidney issues that filter glucose into urine. If this happens repeatedly, discuss it with your doctor to explore underlying causes.
Can protein in urine be caused by something other than kidney disease?
Yes, protein in urine can result from urinary tract infections, pregnancy, or even strenuous exercise. If you notice persistent protein results, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the exact cause.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. You can collect a mid-stream urine sample at home or during a clinic visit. Avoid using urinary tract medications or certain foods (like asparagus) that might affect results, but this is rare for this test.
  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