What is a urine protein test?

A urine protein test measures the amount of protein present in urine. Healthy people don’t have a significant amount of protein in their urine. However, protein may be excreted in the urine when the kidneys aren’t working properly or when high levels of certain proteins are present in the bloodstream. Your doctor may collect a urine test for protein as a random one-time sample or every time you urinate over a 24-hour period.

Why is the test ordered?

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect a problem with your kidneys. They also may order the test:

1-To see if a kidney condition is responding to treatment

2-If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI)

3-As part of a routine urinalysis

A small amount of protein in the urine is normally not a problem. However, larger levels of protein in the urine may be caused by:

1-UTI

2-Kidney infection

3-Diabetes

4-Dehydration

5-Amyloidosis (a buildup of protein in the body’s tissues)

6-Drugs that damage the kidneys (such as NSAIDs, antimicrobials, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs)

7-Hypertension (high blood pressure)

8-Preeclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnant women)

9-Heavy metal poisoning

10-Polycystic kidney disease

11-Congestive heart failure

12-Glomerulonephritis (a kidney disease that causes kidney damage)

13-Systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease)

14-Goodpasture syndrome (an autoimmune disease)

15-Multiple myeloma (a type of cancer affecting bone marrow)

16-Bladder tumor or cancer

Risk factors include:

1-Having a chronic condition such as diabetes or hypertension

2-Having a family history of kidney disease

3-Being of African-American, American Indian, or Hispanic descent

4-Being overweight

5-Being older