Protein in Urine Test (Proteinuria) — Causes, Diagnosis & Meaning
What is a Protein in Urine Test? A protein in urine test measures how much protein is present in your urine sample. In healthy individuals, only a small amount of protein is excreted. When kidney filters (glomeruli) become damaged or inflamed, they allow more protein to pass into the urine. This test helps detect early kidney dysfunction and monitor existing renal diseases or systemic disorders like diabetes and hypertension . Other names: Urine protein test 24-hour urine protein Urine total protein Protein-to-creatinine ratio (PCR) Dipstick urinalysis Why is the Test Done? Your doctor may recommend a urine protein test as part of a routine check-up , to monitor a known kidney condition , or when symptoms suggest kidney dysfunction. It’s also included in a complete urinalysis , which checks urine color, concentration, pH, and the presence of glucose, blood, or bacteria. Conditions Linked to Protein in Urine: Chronic...