Protein Electrophoresis (Urine - 24 hrs)

Urine protein electrophoresis (24-hour) measures and separates proteins collected in a full 24-hour urine sample to detect abnormal or excess proteins. The lab concentrates the urine, performs electrophoresis and immunofixation to identify monoclonal proteins (eg, light chains) and distinguish glomerular from tubular proteinuria. Results help diagnose kidney disease, multiple myeloma, and monitor treatment.

A 24-hour urine protein test measures the total amount of protein passed in urine over a day. It detects and quantifies proteinuria, which signals kidney damage or dysfunction, helps monitor disease progression and treatment response, and supports diagnosis of conditions such as nephrotic syndrome, diabetic or hypertensive kidney disease. Normal total protein excretion is typically under about 150 mg/day.

Costs for a 24‑hour urine protein test vary widely by country, lab and coverage. It can be free under public healthcare, or cost about $20–$150 out‑of‑pocket in the U.S., roughly £30–£100 privately in the U.K., and around ₹200–₹1,000 in India. Final price depends on the laboratory, tests included, and whether insurance or national health services cover it.

Normal total urinary protein excretion is less than 150 mg in 24 hours. For albumin specifically, normal is under 30 mg/24 hours. Albumin excretion of 30–300 mg/24 hours indicates microalbuminuria (early kidney damage); over 300 mg/24 hours suggests significant proteinuria and more advanced kidney disease. See your doctor for causes, further testing, and treatment.

A doctor orders a 24‑hour urine test to quantify substances that vary over a day, helping assess kidney function and detect abnormal protein (proteinuria), creatinine clearance, electrolytes, calcium, oxalate, uric acid, or hormones such as cortisol, catecholamines or aldosterone. It aids diagnosis of kidney disease, causes of high blood pressure or kidney stones, monitors treatment response, and screens for metabolic or systemic disorders.

Alarm is usually defined by an albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) above 30 mg/mmol (severely increased; roughly >300 mg/g). Mildly raised is 3–30 mg/mmol (30–300 mg/g). On a urine dipstick, persistent 2+ or 3+ protein (moderate–large) is concerning. Any persistent proteinuria—especially with swelling, high blood pressure, or reduced urine—needs prompt medical evaluation.