A urine total protein test is conducted to detect excess protein in the urine. This test helps determine an individual's kidney functioning. A urine total protein test is ordered either as a part of a regular physical check-up or to determine the type of disease or condition affecting the kidney. At times, urine total protein is also a follow-up test to a previous total protein urine test which was positive.
When higher-than-normal amounts of protein are in the urine, it’s called proteinuria. This is often a sign of kidney damage and disease.
The test doesn’t show what kinds of protein are in the urine. To determine this, your doctor may also order tests such as a serum and urine protein electrophoresis. The test also doesn’t show the cause of the protein loss.
A 24-hour urine protein test is given if you have symptoms of glomerulonephritis or nephrotic syndrome. Other types of kidney disease or other conditions that affect the kidneys are also sufficient reasons to order the test, including:
- uncontrolled diabetes
- high blood pressure
- lupus
- urinary tract infection
This test also includes Creatinine.
Creatinine is a normal waste product produced by muscle metabolism. When your kidneys are functioning normally, they filter creatinine and other waste products out of your blood and send them out of the body through urine.
Sample Report
Preparation:
You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. No fasting required. Urinate at 8am and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine in 24-hour period, ending with final collection at 8am the next morning. Refrigerate the collected urine between all voidings or keep it in a cool place. Screw the lid on securely. Transport the specimen promptly to the laboratory. Container must be labeled with full name, date and time collection started, and date and time collection finished.
Test Results:
2-4 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
