From the Guidelines
Trace protein in urinalysis is generally considered normal and not a cause for concern, but if it appears repeatedly or in increasing amounts, further evaluation may be warranted to rule out underlying kidney issues or other medical conditions. A small amount of protein (less than 20 mg/dL) can appear in urine occasionally, especially after exercise, during fever, in very concentrated urine, or with emotional stress 1. However, persistent protein in urine (proteinuria) could indicate kidney issues, urinary tract infection, diabetes, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions.
Key Considerations
- The standard dipstick for protein and the untimed urine measurements for total protein-creatinine ratio are useful for detecting proteinuria in adults not at increased risk for developing chronic kidney disease 1.
- Adults at increased risk for chronic kidney disease with a negative result for protein on a standard dipstick test, especially those with diabetes, should undergo testing with either an albumin-specific dipstick or an untimed urine measurement for the albumin–creatinine ratio 1.
- The ratio of protein or albumin to creatinine in an untimed urine specimen has replaced protein excretion in a 24-hour collection as the preferred method for measuring proteinuria, as it corrects for variations in urinary protein concentration due to hydration and is more convenient than timed urine collections 1.
Recommendations
- For healthy individuals with a single finding of trace protein, no treatment is needed, but follow-up testing in 1-3 months might be recommended to ensure it was temporary 1.
- Persistent proteinuria requires medical attention to identify any underlying causes, as it can indicate compromised kidney function, allowing proteins to leak into the urine 1.
From the Research
Urinalysis and Trace Protein
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest whether trace protein on urinalysis is okay or not 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The studies primarily focus on the benefits of physical activity and exercise, as well as the minimal dose of exercise needed to preserve endurance and strength over time 2, 3, 4.
- One study discusses compulsive exercise and its potential harm, particularly in adolescents, but does not mention urinalysis or trace protein 5.
- Another study examines the relationships between physical activity, health status, and chronic medical conditions, but does not provide information on urinalysis results 2.
- Overall, there is a lack of relevant research to assist in answering this question about trace protein on urinalysis.