$Unique_ID{BRK01030}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Questions on Protein in Urine Tests}
$Subject{urine protein Genitourinary Special procedure Procedures Laboratory
lab Tests dipstick test exposure cold emotional stress strenuous activity
seizures functional proteinuria urinate urination proteins}
$Volume{J-16, P-16}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Questions on Protein in Urine Tests


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QUESTION:  During a routine visit to my doctor, my urine was checked.  It was
the test where the nurse dipped a strip of paper in the specimen.  I was told
that there was some protein in the urine, and that they would check it again
at the next visit.  At the next visit however, nothing was found, and no
explanations have been offered to me as to the cause of the protein on the
first test.  Was one of these tests in error?  Do I have anything to worry
about?  Please try to explain this to me.

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ANSWER:  Let's start the answer with a bit of reassurance.  You have nothing
to worry about, the circumstances you describe are very frequent, and both
tests were probably correct.  The method of testing used in your case was a
dipstick test, where the paper had an area saturated with special chemical
that is quite sensitive to even low concentrations of protein.  Although it is
quite reliable, other laboratory tests could be used to confirm the presence
and quantity of protein in the urine.  However, in view of the great frequency
of positive tests found in many individuals, it is a common practice just to
wait a bit and retest the urine at another time.  About 1 person out of 10 who
come to emergency rooms for all sorts of problems are found to have a positive
reaction with this test.  Usually these results are only temporary, as protein
can be found in the urine as the result of such things as exposure to cold,
emotional stress, strenuous activity, seizures, and many other situations that
do not reflect a disease of the kidney.  When this is the case it is labeled
as "functional proteinuria", and the usual procedure is merely to check the
urine again when other opportunities, such as another visit to the doctor's
office, occurs.  When the second test is normal, the patient may be reassured.
While there are times when the cause of the first positive test may be
apparent, most often, despite a carefully taken history, the reason can not be
determined, but this is not a cause for worry or anxiety.  This is one time
when you can relax after a positive test.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.