Interpret Your 24-Hour Urine Protein Results
Enter your 24h Protein value below and get an instant, free AI interpretation — a plain-English explanation checked against WHO/IFCC reference ranges.
Medical Disclaimer
This AI-generated interpretation is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results may vary based on individual health factors not captured here.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. Read full disclaimer →
24-Hour Urine Protein Normal Ranges
24-hour urine protein quantifies the total amount of protein excreted in urine over an entire day.
| Age Group | Reference Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64) | 0 – 150 | mg/day | Normal; nephrotic range >3500 mg/day |
Also reported in: g/day.
Why Doctors Order the 24-Hour Urine Protein Test
A 24-hour protein >3.5 g/day defines nephrotic-range proteinuria — the threshold for diagnosing nephrotic syndrome (which also requires hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hyperlipidemia).
How to Enter Your 24h Protein Result
24-Hour Urine Protein can be reported in mg/day or g/day. Choose the unit printed next to your result on the lab report so it is compared with the matching reference range.
What a Low or High 24h Protein Can Be Associated With
Below the reference range
- Less than 150 mg/day is normal — minimal filtration leak
- Orthostatic proteinuria (benign — protein primarily excreted during upright position; daytime sample high, overnight sample normal)
Above the reference range
- Nephrotic syndrome (>3.5 g/day): minimal change disease, FSGS, membranous nephropathy
- Diabetic nephropathy (most common cause of proteinuria worldwide)
- Lupus nephritis (class III, IV, V)
- Hypertensive nephrosclerosis
- Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia (sudden onset >300 mg/day in pregnancy)
These are common associations, not a diagnosis. A single result is read alongside your symptoms, history and other tests — discuss it with your doctor.
What Can Change Your 24h Protein Result
Before you read too much into a result, consider whether any of these applied:
- Incomplete collection (most common error — missed voids or short collection periods underestimate protein)
- Overcollection (collecting >24 hours or adding residual from previous day overestimates protein)
- Blood contamination (menstruation — avoid collection during menstrual period)
- Medications: aminoglycosides, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, and contrast agents affect protein excretion
Preparing for the test: 24-hour collection protocol: (1) Discard the first morning void. (2) Collect all subsequent urine into a large provided container for exactly 24 hours.
Symptoms That Often Prompt 24h Protein Testing
- Nephrotic syndrome: foamy urine (classic symptom of heavy proteinuria), pitting edema of ankles, legs, face
- Weight gain from fluid retention
- Abdominal distension (ascites in severe hypoalbuminemia)
- Periorbital edema (puffy eyes, especially in the morning)
- Fatigue (from hypoalbuminemia and anemia)
Want the full clinical guide to 24-Hour Urine Protein?
Reference ranges, causes, symptoms, preparation, and FAQs.