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Urine Protein Electrophoresis, Total Protein

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

A urine test that measures total urinary protein and separates protein types by electrophoresis to help evaluate kidney-related protein loss.

Quick summary

["This test can help identify and characterize abnormal protein loss in the urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61346-3
Short code
Rat Urine Prot IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Rat Urine Prot IgE/IgE total %
Category
urine
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What is this test?

Urine protein electrophoresis measures protein in a urine sample and separates it into fractions, such as albumin and other protein groups. The total-protein component reflects the overall amount of protein present in the urine.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to investigate protein in the urine, especially when routine urine testing suggests kidney involvement. The pattern of protein fractions can help clinicians evaluate possible kidney or other medical conditions.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. Protein is separated by electrophoresis, and the amount of total protein and its component fractions are measured or reported.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Depending on the test, a spot urine sample or a timed collection may be required; tell the laboratory if you have a urinary tract infection or recently started new medicines.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An increased total urine protein result may indicate that the kidneys are leaking more protein than expected. The electrophoresis pattern can provide additional information about the types of protein being lost and may help guide evaluation, but results must be interpreted with symptoms, kidney function tests, and other urine findings.

Short name

Urine Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Does a high result always mean I have kidney disease?
No. Increased urine protein can have several causes, and temporary factors such as exercise, fever, infection, or high blood pressure may affect the result.
What is the difference between total urine protein and albumin?
Total urine protein includes albumin and other proteins, while urine albumin testing focuses specifically on albumin. Electrophoresis shows how the urine proteins are distributed among different fractions.
Will I need to collect all of my urine for 24 hours?
That depends on the laboratory's test instructions. Some results use a single urine sample, while others require a precisely timed collection, such as a 24-hour collection.
  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