Proteinuria (Urinary Protein Mass)
This test measures the amount of protein found in your urine, which can help detect kidney problems or other conditions affecting protein loss.
["Protein in urine may signal kidney issues or other health concerns needing further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5804-0
- Short code
- Prot Ur Strip-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prot Ur Strip-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- test-strip
- 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, frequent urination, or blood in urine. It can also be part of routine checks for kidney function or monitoring conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain foods or medications for 24 hours before testing. Drink plenty of water the day of the test to help flush out protein.
How the Test Is Performed
A urine sample is collected, typically in a clean container. The sample is then analyzed in a lab using a method like turbidimetry or nephelometry to measure protein concentration.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal protein levels in urine may indicate kidney damage, inflammation, or other health issues. Your results will be compared to standard reference ranges provided by your lab.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Proteinuria can be a sign of underlying kidney disease, such as glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, or other conditions causing protein loss. It may also appear in conditions like preeclampsia during pregnancy or certain autoimmune diseases. Early detection helps guide treatment and prevent complications.
Short name
Urinary Protein Test
Frequently asked questions
What causes protein in urine?
When should I follow up with my doctor?
Is there anything I can do to reduce protein in urine?
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