What does a 24-hour urine protein of 0.111 grams indicate?

Interpretation of 0.111 G Protein in 24 Hours

A 24-hour urine protein of 0.111 grams indicates normal protein excretion and does not suggest significant kidney disease. 1, 2

Understanding Proteinuria Measurements

• Normal 24-hour urinary protein excretion is less than 150 mg (0.15 g) per day in healthy adults 1
• The value of 0.111 g/24 hours falls within normal limits and is well below the threshold for abnormal proteinuria 1
• Significant proteinuria is defined as ≥300 mg (0.3 g) in a 24-hour urine collection 1, 2

Clinical Significance

• This level of protein excretion does not meet criteria for:

  • Abnormal proteinuria (≥0.3 g/24 hours) 1
  • Nephrotic syndrome (>3.5 g/24 hours) 1
  • Light chain MGUS or idiopathic Bence Jones proteinuria (≥0.5 g/24 hours) 1

• This value would not trigger further workup for:

  • Glomerular disease 1
  • Multiple myeloma 1
  • Preeclampsia (in pregnant patients) 1

Comparison to Other Measurement Methods

• If measured by spot urine protein/creatinine ratio, the equivalent normal value would be <30 mg/mmol (<0.3 mg/mg) 1, 2
• On dipstick testing, this level would likely appear as negative or trace protein 2
• Dipstick measurements correspond approximately to:
  • Negative: <10-20 mg/dL
  • Trace: 20-30 mg/dL
  • 1+: 30-100 mg/dL 2

Clinical Implications

• No specific intervention is needed for this level of proteinuria 1
• This value does not indicate kidney disease or damage 1
• In the context of evaluating asymptomatic microscopic hematuria, this level of proteinuria would not prompt nephrology referral 1
• This protein level would not meet criteria for further evaluation of glomerular disease 1

When to Consider Further Evaluation

• Proteinuria would be considered significant if:

  • 24-hour urine protein ≥300 mg (0.3 g) 1
  • Spot urine protein/creatinine ratio ≥30 mg/mmol (0.3 mg/mg) 1, 2
  • Persistent dipstick protein ≥1+ (30 mg/dL) 1, 2

• Monitor for changes over time, as increasing proteinuria may indicate developing kidney disease 1