Skip to content

Milk protein (casein) concentration in 24-hour urine

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

This test measures the amount of casein, a milk protein, excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It may help assess kidney function or protein loss in urine.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate kidney health by checking for protein loss in urine related to milk consumption."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19756-6
Short code
Sheep Milk IgE Qn
Synonyms
Sheep Milk IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or unexplained weight changes. It could also be used to monitor kidney function in people with certain conditions, such as kidney disease or proteinuria (protein in urine).

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, typically starting and ending with your first morning urine. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Avoid certain medications or foods that might affect protein levels.

During the Test

The test involves collecting urine samples throughout the day and storing them in a container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. No special preparation is needed beyond following the collection instructions.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels of casein in urine may indicate kidney problems or excessive protein loss. Lower levels might suggest normal protein metabolism or dietary factors. Your provider will interpret results in relation to your overall health and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated casein in urine can signal conditions like nephrotic syndrome, kidney damage, or certain inflammatory diseases. It may also help identify kidney issues in people with milk allergies or sensitivities. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Casein

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal casein levels in urine?
Abnormal casein levels in urine can result from kidney disease, protein-losing conditions, or dietary factors (like high milk intake). Certain medications or medical conditions may also influence protein excretion.
How is this test different from a general urine protein test?
This test specifically measures casein, a milk protein, rather than all proteins in urine. A general urine protein test checks for total protein loss, while this test focuses on casein-related proteinuria, often used in specific clinical scenarios.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes, diet can influence results. High milk consumption may increase casein excretion, while avoiding milk or certain medications may help normalize levels. Follow your provider’s guidance on dietary restrictions during testing.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

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