Proteins in Urine: price and preparation | IntroLab Belgrade
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Proteins in Urine

Price400 RSD
Result in1 day
SampleUrine
Proteins in Urine test, IntroLab laboratory Belgrade Written byMilica Ranković Proteins in Urine test, IntroLab laboratory Belgrade Medically reviewed byDr. Igor Švonja, MD

Published: Updated:

The proteins in urine test is used to detect and measure proteins, including albumin, in the urine. This test is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various conditions, particularly those affecting the kidneys. It is available at IntroLab, a private laboratory in Belgrade.

What are proteins?

Proteins are essential components of all living organisms and play a crucial role in most biological processes. However, the presence of proteins in urine (proteinuria) can indicate certain health issues, particularly kidney diseases.

Types of proteinuria

There are three main types of proteinuria: transient, orthostatic, and persistent.

  • Transient Proteinuria is the most common type and usually resolves without treatment. It can occur due to factors such as high fever, intense physical activity, or urinary infections.
  • Orthostatic Proteinuria occurs only when a person is standing or sitting and disappears when lying down. It affects 2-5% of adults but is rare in individuals over 30 years old. The cause of orthostatic proteinuria is unknown. It is not harmful, does not require treatment, and typically resolves with age. Diagnosis involves collecting urine separately during the day (standing/sitting) and night (after sleeping).
  • Persistent proteinuria occurs in patients with kidney or other conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or bone marrow disorders like multiple myeloma.

How is the test performed?

The test involves providing a urine sample. A laboratory technician uses a test strip with a sensitive area that changes color when proteins are present. The color change on the strip indicates the level of proteins in your urine.

Preparing for the test

Before the test, inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some can affect the results. Several factors can influence the outcome of the urine protein test, including dehydration, use of contrast agents for radiological exams, physical activity and urinary tract infections.

Interpretation of results

Normal protein levels in urine vary, but for a random urine sample, they typically range from 0 to 14 mg/dL. Higher than normal protein levels in your urine can indicate conditions such as kidney disease, heart failure, pregnancy complications, and urinary infections.

Risks associated with the proteins in urine test

The proteins in urine test is safe and risk-free. It involves normal urination, so there is no discomfort involved.

Sample and preparation: Proteins in Urine

Sample
Urine
Sampling
Urine collection
Result in
1 day
Preparation
Collect a fresh, midstream urine sample from the first morning urination in a provided container. Ensure you clean the external genital area before collecting the sample. A minimum of 10-15 mL of urine is required for the analysis. The sample should be analyzed within 2 hours of collection or within 4 hours if refrigerated. Women should not collect urine during menstruation.
Category
Urine analysis

Frequently asked questions

How much does a urine protein test cost and how is the sample given?

The Proteins in Urine test at IntroLab laboratory costs 400 RSD, and results are ready in 1 day. You bring a fresh first morning midstream urine sample in a urine container, after cleaning the external genital area. At least 10–15 mL of urine is needed, and the sample should be brought within 2 hours, or within 4 hours if refrigerated. Women should not give a urine sample during menstruation.

What does trace, 1+ or 2+ protein in urine mean?

These are readings from a test strip that changes color when protein is present: “trace” means a very small amount of protein, and 1+, 2+ and higher mean increasingly larger amounts. Trace or 1+ protein can be temporary, after a fever, strenuous physical exercise or a urinary tract infection. That is why the doctor often asks for the Proteins in Urine test from IntroLab laboratory to be repeated before drawing a conclusion.

Is a urine protein test the same as a 24-hour urine protein test?

No. The Proteins in Urine test at IntroLab laboratory is done from first morning urine and shows whether there is protein in the urine. Protein in 24-hour urine is measured from all the urine collected over a day and night and shows how much protein is lost in 24 hours. The doctor usually orders that test when a single sample is positive or in kidney disease.

What does high protein in urine mean?

High protein in urine (proteinuria) does not always mean disease. Transient proteinuria is the most common and occurs after a fever, intense exercise or with a urinary tract infection. Orthostatic proteinuria appears only in an upright position and is not harmful. Persistent proteinuria may indicate kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure or pregnancy complications. Results from IntroLab laboratory are interpreted by a doctor.

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