Urine Protein
A protein urine test measures the amount of proteins, such as albumin, found in a urine sample.
This test is most often performed when kidney disease is suspected. It may be used as a screening test.
Normally, protein is not found in urine when a routine dipstick test is performed. However, tiny amounts of protein can be detected using special methods. This is because the kidney is supposed to keep large substances like protein in the blood. Even if small amounts of protein do get through, the body normally reabsorbs them.
Some proteins will appear in the urine if the levels of protein in blood become high, even when the kidney is working properly.
If the kidney is diseased, protein will appear in the urine even if blood protein levels are normal.
You can give a urine sample at your doctor’s office or laboratory. No special preparation is required.
Different drugs can change the result of this test. Make sure your health care provider knows what medications you are taking.
The following may also interfere with test results:
- Dehydration
- Dye (contrast media) if you have a radiology scan within 3 days before the urine test
- Severe emotional stress
- Strenuous exercise
- Urinary tract infection
- Urine contaminated with fluids from the vagina
A lab technician will give you a plastic jar with a lid on it and ask you to provide a urine sample. You can give a urine sample at your doctor’s office or laboratory. No special preparation is required.