$Unique_ID{BRK01473}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What Does Protein in One's Urine Mean?}
$Subject{urine test protein genitourinary system special procedures laboratory
tests dip-stick proteinuria kidney kidneys bladder lab procedure urination
urinate urines urinates urinations proteins dip stick}
$Volume{J-16, P-16}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Does Protein in One's Urine Mean?


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QUESTION:  During a recent routine physical examination, my physician took a
urine test as well as some blood for testing.  As I understand it, the nurse
did a "dip-stick" test on my urine and found that it contained "protein".  Now
I am to start a whole new series of test to see what is wrong.  Can you tell
me what this all means and do you think it is serious?

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ANSWER:  All normal urine contains some protein although the quantities are
small, less than 150 mg in a 24 hour period.  However, screening tests can
detect higher levels and give some indication as to amounts.  The "dip-stick"
is a screening test, using a small strip coated with a chemical that changes
its color in relation to the amount of protein present.  A positive finding of
the presence of higher than normal levels of protein in the urine (it's called
"proteinuria") is reported in as many as 10 percent of patients tested with
this method.  In children, adolescents and physically active young adults,
this may be a situation that is benign (without being caused by a disease
process), and frequently disappears by itself.  In some cases it is the result
of a "false positive" that may occur when the urine is highly concentrated, or
when it is contaminated by certain antiseptics.  Protein may be found in the
urine when caused by some illnesses such as infection and fever, and is not
always the sign of kidney disease.  However, while the presence of some
protein in the urine on a screening test is not necessarily a cause for alarm,
it most certainly demands an explanation, which may be afforded by additional
testing and investigations.  In some cases the patient, under physician
supervision, may be able to conduct a series of dip stick tests on himself, to
see if the results continue to be positive or if there is some pattern to the
findings.  In other situations, more accurate methods of analysis are used to
determine the amount of protein in the urine.  Along with a careful history
and physical examination, other tests may be used, utilizing x-rays and other
procedures, to determine the causes of the positive findings.  You are well
advised to continue the testing to determine the exact diagnosis, and any
treatments that may be required.

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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.