Protein in urine - what does it mean? Causes of increase, norm, treatment tactics. Protein in urine: what does it mean? Reasons for the increase and norms Protein in the urine exceeds the concentration

There should be no protein in the urine, or it can be detected by analysis in trace amounts - up to 0.033 g/l.

If traces of protein are detected in the urine or a slightly higher than trace amount of protein, a repeat analysis is performed.

Insignificant protein levels in the test results can be explained by insufficient patient hygiene before collecting urine, taking certain medications, or eating protein foods. Why is this value, 0.033 g/l, considered the normal limit? Lower protein concentrations are difficult to detect using existing laboratory testing techniques.

The norm of protein in urine in men is up to 0.033 g/l, maximum up to 0.05 g/l. Protein in the urine can occasionally appear due to stress, muscle strain, eating large amounts of meat or eggs (protein foods), sometimes protein can get into the urine with sperm. If there is a persistent excess of the protein norm, this indicates the presence of a pathological factor.

The norm of protein in urine in women is no more than 0.033 g/l. When collecting urine for analysis, it is necessary to exclude vaginal discharge or menstrual blood from entering it - this will give a false positive result. During pregnancy, the protein content in the urine can increase to 0.14 g/l (according to other sources up to 0.3 g/l), such a concentration is not yet considered abnormal and is usually explained by mechanical compression of the kidneys by the enlarged uterus.

If the protein content in the urine is higher, it may be a symptom of kidney disease or gestosis (toxicosis of the second half of pregnancy) With gestosis, the permeability of blood vessels increases, and fluid leaves the bloodstream into the edema. The mechanism for increasing blood pressure is activated to maintain its level in the vessels; the fluid goes into edema, the pressure rises. This vicious circle is extremely dangerous for mother and child.

The probable cause of the appearance of protein in the urine is cystitis, a common disease in pregnant women.

In children, protein should not normally be detected in the test results, although pediatricians allow its occasional appearance in concentrations of up to 0.036 g/l. Protein in the range of 0.7 - 0.9 g/l can be observed in boys 6 - 14 years old with high physical activity, and only during the daytime (orthostatic proteinuria). The boy's morning urine test immediately after sleep does not detect protein.

This condition is not considered pathological. Sometimes protein is detected in infants when they begin complementary feeding with cottage cheese, meat, and in children who are sick or have just had ARVI. After 7 to 10 days of recovery, the protein should return to trace levels.

Causes of protein in urine

• kidney diseases (acute and chronic glomerulonephritis, nephrosis, nephropathy of pregnancy, pyelonephritis, tuberculosis);
• poisoning with a number of toxic substances;
• degenerative changes in the kidneys with hypertension, atherosclerosis of the renal arteries, diabetes mellitus;
• inflammatory processes in the bladder and urethra (cystitis, urethritis), urolithiasis, prostatitis;
• oncological diseases;
• chemotherapy of oncological diseases;
• allergic and autoimmune reactions;
• significant injuries to muscle tissue, extensive burns;
• severe stress;
• hypothermia;
• functional reasons associated with increased blood flow in the renal arteries. A larger volume of blood than usual enters the kidneys per unit time, and accordingly more protein is filtered. This explains the increase in protein concentration in the urine with significant physical activity.

As already indicated, increased protein content in the urine can appear in healthy people after significant physical strain, including excessive sweating, and dehydration.

An important diagnostic indicator is daily protein in urine (the amount of protein excreted in urine per day).

A test of 24-hour urine for protein is carried out after a repeat general urine test has again confirmed its presence. The permissible amount of protein in the daily volume of urine is 0.08 – 0.24 g/day. The urine excreted by the patient during the day is collected in a 2.7 liter container (sold in pharmacies), or in a well washed and dry, preferably sterilized 3 liter jar. The day before urine collection, you should avoid taking diuretics and acetylsalicylic acid. Before each urination, both women and men should wash themselves thoroughly.

If a woman is menstruating, it is best to wait until it ends. When urinating, it is better for women to cover the vaginal opening with a sterile cotton swab. The first portion of morning urine is not collected, they start with the average one, but note the time of the first trip to the toilet in order to finish collecting urine for analysis after about 24 hours. The urine collected per day is thoroughly shaken and about 100 ml is poured into prepared containers, preferably into a sterile pharmaceutical container. However, when directed by your doctor, bring everything you have collected.

Normally, protein excretion (protein in daily urine) should not exceed 50–80 mg (0.05–0.08 g) per day. During extreme physical activity (athletes, loaders, etc.), the physiological maximum is 250 mg/day. In pregnant women, the physiological maximum is 300 mg/day, in later stages up to 500 mg/day (if edema and arterial hypertension are not observed).

Increased protein in urine, what does this mean?

Proteinuria is a persistent increase in protein content in the urine, protein excretion in the urine. First of all, it can signal a violation of the filtration function of the kidneys and is most likely caused by:

• increased permeability of glomerular membranes to plasma proteins;
• an increased amount of proteins in the blood plasma above the normal level;
• impaired reabsorption (reabsorption) of plasma proteins in the kidney tubules;
• the entry of kidney tissue proteins into the urine during inflammation or traumatic damage.

Daily protein loss, or the degree of proteinuria, is of diagnostic importance:

• up to 0.5 g/day – moderate. Occurs in chronic pyelonephritis;
• from 0.5 to 4 g/day – high. Characteristic of acute pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, renal amyloidosis (disorders of protein metabolism, in some cases associated with an autoimmune reaction - an insufficiently studied disease with serious consequences), toxic nephropathy (poisoning with a number of toxins), as well as kidney damage due to diabetes mellitus or heart failure;
• more than 4 g/day – typical for degradation of the glomerular apparatus of the kidneys.

The combination of proteinuria with an increased content of leukocytes indicates inflammation, infection in the urinary tract, the presence of blood - the possible presence of ulcerations of the mucous membrane or an increase in the permeability of the walls of blood vessels of the mucous membrane, or injury. Attention is also paid to the molecular weight of the detected protein.

The low molecular weight of the proteins indicates that their filtration by the kidneys is only slightly impaired. High molecular weight of proteins is a sign of severe pathological changes in the kidneys.

Diagnostics

A general urine test is an initial study, the results of which determine the need for further diagnosis. If protein is detected in a repeated general analysis, a 24-hour urine test is first prescribed. If it confirms proteinuria, then they carry out:

• general blood test (primarily the number of leukocytes and ESR);
• blood sugar test;
• enzyme-linked immunosorbent test (possibly);
• blood test for lipid spectrum (possibly);
• Ultrasound of the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract (required).

Ultrasound with an increased concentration of protein in the urine is very informative.

If pathological changes in the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract are not detected, further searches for the cause of proteinuria continue.

We remind you that proteinuria can signal a developing cancer (leukemia, myeloma).

How to get rid of protein in urine, including folk remedies

The question is posed fundamentally incorrectly.

Proteinuria is not a disease, but a symptom of possible diseases. It is necessary to undergo a medical examination to determine the causes of proteinuria.

Depending on the reasons, treatment is prescribed. Having identified the cause, you need to influence it, including, possibly, folk remedies.

In any case, if increased protein is detected in the urine, it is necessary to facilitate the work of the kidneys as much as possible:

• limit salt intake;
• give up spices, pickles and canned food with vinegar, sausages, smoked meats, meat and fish broths;
• exclude alcoholic drinks, including beer;
• refrain from physical activity.

The presence of protein in the urine, which is detected, should make the patient wary. Of course, this may be a temporary phenomenon, in no way connected with anything serious, however, most often it indicates diseases of the internal organs. In some cases, even about a malignant tumor. In order not to panic ahead of time, but also not to let everything take its course, you should figure out why there may be more protein in the urine than normal.

Causes of high protein

In medicine, an increase in protein levels in the urine is called. This process can indicate a variety of pathological processes, ranging from burns or injuries to systemic pathologies.

As for reasons not related to kidney disease in a man or woman, the presence of proteinuria may be a consequence of the increase in body temperature that accompanies colds. In addition, the substance can be detected due to intense physical activity or due to excessive consumption of products containing it.

Normally, protein in the urine should not exceed 3 ml/l. But an increase in its level does not immediately indicate a pathological process. You should understand what protein in urine means in healthy people. This factor may be due to the following reasons:

• increased physical activity;
• emotional overstrain, stress;
• allergic manifestations;
• physiological hypothermia;
• in newborns, increased protein is observed in the first days of life;
• recent colds and infections;
• eating raw eggs, dairy products and other foods that contain large amounts of this substance;
• some pharmaceuticals;
• There may also be traces of protein in the urine during pregnancy, due to the growth of the fetus, which puts pressure on the kidneys.

However, a pathological increase in protein in the urine may also be observed, what does this mean? The occurrence of proteinuria often indicates a malfunction of the kidneys and other organs that control the excretion of urine from the body. Such pathological processes include:

• infectious diseases that damage the renal tubules and glomeruli, resulting in the development of glomerulonephritis, cystitis, pyelonephritis;
• diseases that disrupt the conduction of nerve impulses: stroke, concussion, epilepsy, etc.;
• diabetes;
• and other neoplasms in the kidneys and urinary tract;
• inflammation of the reproductive and urinary system;
• and other chronic pathologies of organs;
• leukemia;
• heart failure;
• multiple myeloma.

It is also important to note that protein in urine in men and women has several stages:

• the daily yield of the substance does not exceed 1 g. – light;
• 1–3 gr. – average;
• more than 3 gr. – heavy.

Symptoms of diseases

Slightly increased protein in the urine, as a rule, does not manifest itself in any way. Only a prolonged increase in proteins can affect the patient’s condition. In this case, the following may be noted:

• swelling is one of the main signs of protein loss;
• lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite;
• increased blood pressure, which signals development;
• muscle cramps and pain;
• increase in body temperature.

Some changes also occur in the urine itself:

• foam, especially when shaking the urine, this sign unmistakably indicates proteinuria;
• whitish sediment and turbidity, which indicates an increased concentration of protein and;
• a brown tint that indicates;
• ammonia odor, which may be a consequence of diabetes.

Severe kidney disease, which increases protein in the urine, also increases the number of red and white blood cells.

Increased protein during pregnancy

If the kidneys fully cope with the load placed on them during pregnancy, then the norm of protein in the urine will not be disturbed. But even its increase does not indicate the presence of a serious illness in a woman.

Increasing the substance to 3 g. - a completely normal physiological phenomenon that does not lead to abnormalities in either the pregnant woman or the fetus.

In later stages it is even higher and can reach 5 g/l. This should in no way bother a woman if she has no alarming symptoms. However, proteinuria, accompanied by high blood pressure, swelling, and toxicosis, should make a woman wary and undergo the necessary examination.

What are the dangers of high protein levels?

From a technical point of view, an increase in protein in the urine is a consequence of its loss by the body's cells. But its functions in the body are quite significant. With the help of protein, structural, protective, hormonal and other processes important for life occur, the loss of which will negatively affect the functioning of the entire organism.

Therefore, increased protein in the urine in men and women, which is accompanied by clinical symptoms, is subject to careful examination and immediate treatment.

Rules for taking a urine test

Urine is donated in the morning on an empty stomach. This is called a screening test. Improper urine collection or poor hygiene before taking the test may indicate the presence of a false high protein in the urine.

If the protein in the urine test exceeds the norm, an additional examination is carried out - a daily collection.

To make an accurate diagnosis, the patient must undergo a number of additional examinations. If the examination reveals a lot of protein and leukocytes, most likely we are talking about an inflammatory process. In the presence of protein and red blood cells, in most cases, stone passage or dysfunction of the urinary system is diagnosed.

Treatment

Increased protein in the urine in men and women can cause its decrease in the blood. This phenomenon is accompanied by edema and increased blood pressure. In this case, it is important to seek medical help immediately. The doctor, after making an accurate diagnosis, will draw up a competent treatment regimen, which will depend on the cause of proteinuria. Increased protein in the urine, after identifying the cause of the pathology, is treated with drugs from various groups:

• hypotensive;
• decongestants;
• antibacterial agents;
• glucocorticosteroids;
• cytostatics;
• drugs that reduce blood clotting drugs.

If necessary, drug treatment can be supplemented with hemosorption and plasmapheresis. These are methods of blood purification.

To restore the normal level of protein in urine in women and men, it is necessary to eat properly, since proteinuria is caused by excessive consumption of fatty, spicy and salty foods. Therefore, the diet should include some restrictions:

• the daily amount of salt consumed should not exceed 2 grams;
• monitor the volume of urine excreted against the background of drinking liquid. The drinking norm for proteinuria is 1 liter per day;
• eat as many fruits and vegetables (especially beets), raisins, milk, rice as possible;
• limit consumption of meat and fish for at least 2 months.

To achieve a positive result, prepare a decoction that has an anti-inflammatory effect. Tricolor violet, drop cap grass and black poplar buds are mixed in equal proportions. A tablespoon of the mixture is poured into a glass of boiling water and left for 30 minutes. Drink in several doses throughout the day. Optimal results are achieved after a three-week course.

Prevention

The most important thing is to prevent the development of chronic proteinuria. In this regard, it is important to follow preventive measures that will help avoid the development of serious causes of protein in the urine.

If changes in urine are detected that are characteristic of proteinuria, it is important to immediately visit a urologist and undergo a urine test. Timely treatment of proteinuria will save the patient from the severe consequences of the pathology.

Often the cause of protein in the urine is diabetes or hypertension. In this case, it is important to constantly monitor blood pressure, reduce salt, sugar and protein intake as much as possible, and take the necessary medications.

The presence of pyelonephritis and other systemic kidney pathologies indicates that the patient should be constantly monitored by a urologist.

If a general analysis shows increased protein in the urine, this indicates the development of severe pathologies that require immediate treatment. However, sometimes proteinuria is a manifestation of physiological reactions and goes away on its own. The excretion of protein in the urine occurs due to the structural features of the filtration apparatus of the kidneys.

If elevated protein is detected in urine tests, most likely the patient will be dealing with kidney pathologies.

What does it represent?

A lot of protein in the urine is determined using biochemical analysis. The release of proteins is called proteinuria and is an indicator of the filtration function of the glomeruli and the level of reabsorption of the tubules located in the kidneys. Therefore, its determination in urine helps to detect disease of this organ, and also indicates a violation of metabolic processes in the body or an excessively high level of cell destruction.

All proteins excreted in urine can be divided into 3 types:

• Immunoglobulins are responsible for the body’s immune defense; normally they are secreted 20% of the total amount. They are low molecular weight, and therefore the filtration apparatus of the kidneys is unable to retain them. Their appearance indicates a reabsorption disorder.
• Mucoprotein - makes up 40% of the normal total. An increase in the content of this substance indicates the destruction of the hyaline cylinders of the kidneys and is secreted in the distal tubules.
• Albumin is a high-molecular protein, an increased content of which indicates the destruction of the glomeruli.

Protein norm

Protein in the urine of a healthy adult should not exceed a concentration of 0.33 milligram percent.

In an ideal urine test, its concentration in urine is no more than 0.33 mg/dl or it is completely absent. Some laboratory technicians describe these results as marks. The protein in the urine collected per day should not exceed 150 milligrams. A small amount of it occurs under the influence of a number of physiological factors not related to the disease. This condition can be caused by poor nutrition and poor personal hygiene.

What is analysis?

To determine the amount of proteins in urine, a general urine test (UCA) is performed.

Qualitative methods for determining the presence of protein in urine are based on its ability to denature under the influence of temperature or other physical and chemical factors. These methods are suitable for screening diagnostics. With their help, it can be stated that protein is present in urine, without having information about its concentration. There are the following types of samples:

• heating;
• the effect of sulfosalicylic acid;
• Heller's test.

Determination of protein in urine is also possible using semi-quantitative methods. They can be used to determine low or high protein concentrations. Quantitative methods show the exact value of protein content, and also evaluate other parameters. This method is used if previous studies have shown a positive result or if it is suspected that the patient has a serious illness.

The level of protein in urine is determined in the laboratory through chemical and physical manipulations.

There are the following quantitative methods for assessing protein concentration based on urine analysis:

• Turbodimetric - based on the ability not to dissolve under the influence of a special agent. Such substances are:
  • sulfosalicylic acid;
  • trichloroacetic;
  • benzethonium chloride.
• Colorimetric tests indicate the amount of protein based on the degree of coloration of the solution. The color of urine changes as a result of the addition of special reagents.

Symptoms that are indications for testing

• Swelling that appears mainly in the morning;
• change in the color or clarity of urine;
• decrease in the amount of hemoglobin in the blood;
• fever;
• joint pain;
• fast fatiguability;
• nausea, vomiting;
• increased blood pressure.

Preparation and delivery

The highest quality determination of protein in urine is carried out using a morning portion. However, it must be collected immediately after waking up. Sometimes a random portion of urine is used. On the eve of the study, patients are on a diet with limited fatty, fried and protein foods, and are prohibited from drinking alcohol or diuretics. It is necessary to significantly reduce physical activity and maintain personal hygiene.

Causes of proteinuria in women and men

An increase in protein in the urine occurs due to pathological or physiological factors. However, its acceptable levels are up to 3.3 mg/dl, and a large amount (above 8 mg/dl) always indicates a disease. In addition, the persistent appearance of protein, even in small quantities, is dangerous, which means a malfunction of the kidneys. Protein in the urine appears much less frequently in men, which is caused by the structural features of the urinary system.

Physiological proteinuria is caused by the following factors:

nutritional features;

significant hypothermia;

stressful conditions;

tanning or sunbathing;

non-compliance with hygiene during the test;

late stages of pregnancy in a woman;

standing work;

previous physical procedures.

After eliminating the underlying cause, traces of protein in the urine disappear.

Detection of a substance significantly higher than normal indicates the following diseases and conditions:

Proteinuria occurs with kidney pathologies, poisoning, infectious diseases, and metabolic problems.

• various types of pathologies of the urinary system;
• infections with high fever;
• allergic reactions;
• high blood pressure;
• metabolic disease;
• poisoning with toxic substances;
• taking antibiotics or other drugs with high nephrotoxicity;
• systemic autoimmune process;
• consequences of the presence of a malignant tumor in the body.

One of the structures that takes an active part in all processes at the cellular level is protein. A disease of any nature is accompanied by a process in which protein content is a mandatory indicator. A small concentration of protein is even observed in the urine, but an increase in its levels may be a signal of the development of some pathology in the body.

The pathological condition of the body, which is accompanied by an increase in the permissible amount of protein in the urine, is called proteinuria. Such a pathology can develop as a consequence of the progression of various diseases in the human body, but sometimes such a pathological condition is diagnosed in apparently healthy people. Failure to provide timely treatment for the development of mild and transient proteinuria can lead to its transition to a more severe form.

One of the liquid components of blood is plasma, which contains a large number of different proteins. The functioning of the kidneys in the human body is aimed at preserving plasma proteins and preventing their removal along with waste products during the formation of urine.

The human body is a complex system, and preventing proteins from entering the urine is done in two ways. One of them is the participation in this process of the renal pelvis, which acts as a barrier and retains large plasma proteins in the blood vessels. The passage of small proteins through the glomeruli leads to their complete absorption into the kidney tubules.

Most often, the development of proteinuria occurs when the renal nodules or tubules are damaged.

The presence of pathological areas on the nodules or tubules, as well as the localization of the inflammatory process in this area, leads to the fact that a large amount of plasma proteins penetrates into the urine. Injuries and damage to the channels make the process of protein reabsorption impossible. Mild proteinuria is usually accompanied by the absence of any proteinuria. An increased concentration of protein will cause foamy urine, and a decrease in the amount of protein will cause swelling of the limbs, face and abdomen.

Detection of protein content in the urine of women can serve as both a normal indicator and indicate the development of a severe one.

Mild proteinuria may occur without pronounced symptoms, however, the following signs of the disease may be observed:

• The appearance of pain in the bones, developing as a result of the loss of large amounts of protein.
• Increased fatigue of the body, which progresses quite quickly.
• Accumulation of protein molecules in the fingers and toes.
• Large amounts of calcium are deposited, which leads to the development of pathological conditions such as dizziness and drowsiness.
• There is a change in the color of urine: getting into the urine gives it a reddish tint, and the accumulation of a large amount of albumin makes it whitish.
• The inflammatory process leads to increased body temperature and severe chills.
• Appetite decreases, attacks of nausea and vomiting become frequent.

More information about urine analysis can be found in the video.

Reasons for the development of pathology

An increased concentration of protein in the urine can develop for various reasons:

• Kidney diseases of various types.
• Penetration of infections into the body.
• Taking certain groups of medications.
• Emotional and physical stress.

In addition, an increased concentration of protein in the urine can be diagnosed when:

• Amyloidosis
• Bladder cancer
• Diabetes
• Kidney infection
• Multiple myeloma
• Hypertension
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Prolonged hypothermia of the body
• Burns of varying degrees

Only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and identify the cause of the increased protein content, and you should definitely contact him if you have symptoms of the pathology.

Diagnosis of the disease

For this purpose, a daily portion of protein is used, which allows you to determine the concentration of protein in it. In medical terminology, such a study is called ““.

For patients, collecting urine throughout the day is not a very convenient process, so some experts determine the protein content in urine using electrophoresis, using one portion of liquid. Such studies play an important role in the lives of people who are diagnosed with pathologies such as diabetes and kidney failure.

The results carried out and obtained make it possible to determine the true cause of the high protein content in the test material and to prescribe correct and effective treatment.

A 24-hour urine test is prescribed in the following cases:

• Pathological condition of the urinary system.
• Conducting examinations during preventive examinations.
• Identification of the dynamics of pathology and the effectiveness of the prescribed one.
• There is a suspicion of the presence of protein and red blood cells in the urine.

Features of urine analysis for protein

Urine collection must be carried out in compliance with certain rules, since the reliability of the results obtained will subsequently depend on this. Most often, doctors ask the patient to collect morning urine.

The urine collection process consists of the following sequential steps:

1. Preparation of the caustic container in which the material for research will be collected. Most often, a small jar with a wide neck is used for these purposes. It should be washed thoroughly, treated with boiling water and dried well. If the collection is carried out on infants, then urine bags can be used for this.
2. It is necessary to thoroughly wash the genitals, since this fact plays a significant role in the reliability of the results. For this purpose, it is recommended to use ordinary clean water and under no circumstances resort to the use of such means as: m Argansovka, t herbal tinctures and antiseptics.

The use of these agents may interfere with the reliability of urinary protein levels.

Before prescribing any treatment, a thorough examination of the patient is carried out and the main emphasis is on identifying the cause of the increased protein content in the urine.

This fact is of particular importance, since all treatment will be focused specifically on eliminating the pathology that caused the development of the inflammatory process.

Often the causes of this pathological state of the body are diseases such as:

1. Diabetes
2. Arterial hypertension

If it is confirmed that the source of protein in urine is diabetes mellitus, the specialist will prescribe the necessary drug treatment, as well as special treatment.

P An increase in protein levels in the urine due to arterial hypertension requires regular monitoring of blood pressure readings.

In addition, the doctor pays special attention to the individual prescription of medications. If diseases such as pyelonephritis, congenital kidney anomalies and glomerulonephritis are confirmed, treatment involves regular monitoring by a nephrologist.

Treatment of pathology using traditional medicine has a good effect:

• Many patients resort to this recipe: in a small container, grind 4 tablespoons of parsley seeds well and pour a glass of boiling water. The resulting mixture should be infused for 2-3 hours, after which it should be consumed in small portions as a medicine against proteinuria.
• A berry such as cranberry has proven itself well in treating the disease. Squeeze the juice out of a small amount of berries, and put the skins of the berries on the fire for 15-20 minutes. After this, bring the prepared broth to room temperature and mix it with squeezed cranberry juice. The resulting mixture should be taken in small quantities throughout the day.

Proteinuria is a pathological condition of the body that can be accompanied by the progression of various diseases in the human body. proteinuria with the help of medications, as well as the use of traditional recipes should only be carried out under the supervision of a specialist.

Urinalysis is a traditional test prescribed even to healthy women, for example, during pregnancy. Sometimes a doctor, seeing protein in the analysis, says it’s not scary.

Is this so and at what level of protein in the urine should we sound the alarm? All doubts disappear if the woman herself knows the limits of the increase in proteins in the urine and its possible causes.

normal protein in urine in women

The ideal urine test is the complete absence of protein. However, the number 0.033 g/l is often written in the “protein” column. This indicator is called traces of protein, it is also the boundary between the norm and deviation.

The appearance of traces of protein in a urine test is often caused by physiological reasons (malnutrition, insufficient hygiene before taking urine for analysis, etc.). In such cases, a repeat analysis is usually prescribed.

Increased protein in the urine is referred to medically as proteinuria. At the same time, the indicators of a general urine analysis are not enough; it is important to take into account the amount of protein lost in the urine per day. The normal daily level is no more than 150 mg/day.

The pathological condition of proteinuria is divided into several stages depending on the daily loss of protein in the urine:

• mild - protein loss less than 1 g/day;
• moderate - proteinuria rate 1-3 g/day;
• severe - protein excretion in urine exceeds 3 g/day.

The factors that provoke proteinuria may be completely harmless, however, even persistent fixation of traces of protein indicates some disorders associated with kidney function.

foam indicates the presence of protein

Physiological causes of increased protein in the urine in women more often provoke the appearance of its traces in the analysis. Protein at a level of 0.033 g/l provokes:

errors in nutrition;

hypothermia;

stress;

prolonged sunbathing, tanning;

non-compliance with hygiene when collecting analysis, menstruation in a woman;

late pregnancy;

the specificity of standing work, which provokes stagnation (for example, a salesperson);

physiotherapy (especially contrast shower);

active palpation of the kidneys at a doctor’s appointment.

Typically, urine protein levels return to normal after the provoking factor is eliminated.

However, physiological exposure over a long period of time can lead to the development of a pathological condition and significant loss of proteins in the urine.

Diseases in which the presence of protein in the urine is noted:

• pathology of the urinary system - pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, cystitis, prostatitis, kidney injuries, kidney and urolithiasis, kidney tuberculosis;
• infectious diseases accompanied by high fever - severe flu, pneumonia;
• severe allergic reactions;
• hypertension;
• diabetes mellitus, obesity;
• poisoning by toxins;
• appendicitis (proteinuria combined with high blood leukocytosis);
• negative effects of certain medications (for example, treatment of oncology with cytostatics);
• systemic pathology - lupus erythematosus;
• malignant tumors - leukemia, myeloma, neoplasms in the bladder and kidneys.

Foods that increase protein in urine

To find out the true cause of proteinuria and prescribe treatment, a false urine test result should be excluded. Along with observing hygiene rules during urine collection, you should pay attention to your diet 2-3 days before the test.

Some foods cause abnormal protein levels in the urine. These include:

• salty foods (eating herring often causes protein in the urine during pregnancy);
• indulgence in sweets;
• spicy foods that irritate the kidneys;
• marinades containing vinegar;
• abundant consumption of protein foods - meat, fish, eggs, raw milk;
• alcohol, including beer;
• mineral water in large quantities.

Proteinuria is also caused by insufficient fluid intake and excessive intake of vit. C. Even long-term use of rosehip infusion, rich in ascorbic acid, irritates the kidney parenchyma and can provoke an exacerbation of kidney disease and changes in urinalysis parameters.

Medicines such as Aspirin, Cephalosporin, Oxacillin, Polymyxin, Streptomycin and medicines containing lithium also have an irritating effect on the kidneys. Before diagnosis, their use is usually canceled.

Symptoms of pathological conditions

A small amount of protein in the urine usually does not give any external signs. Only prolonged or severe proteinuria affects the patient’s condition. Women may note:

• swelling is a sign of loss of blood protein;
• increased a/d - signals developing nephropathy;
• weakness, lack of appetite;
• muscle pain, recurring cramps;
• temperature increase.

In this case, the following changes in urine can be visually noted:

• the appearance of foam when shaking accurately indicates the presence of protein;
• cloudy color, white sediment - increased protein and leukocytes in the urine;
• brownish color is a sign of the presence of red blood cells in the urine;
• a pungent ammonia smell - raises suspicion of diabetes mellitus.

In case of severe damage to the kidney tissue and developing stone formation, protein, leukocytes, and erythrocytes are present in the urine.

Increased protein in urine during pregnancy

If the kidneys cope with the increasing load during pregnancy, the urine will react with a lack of protein in it. However, even its presence in the general analysis does not indicate pathology.

Even an increase in daily protein in urine to 300 mg is considered physiological and does not cause pathological abnormalities in the body of the mother and fetus.

The level of protein in urine in late pregnancy is even higher - up to 500 mg/day. However, these indicators should not alarm if the pregnant woman does not have accompanying symptoms.

Toxicosis, edema, increased blood pressure in combination with proteinuria are alarming signals that require a more thorough examination of the woman.

Treatment

For physiological proteinuria, drug treatment is not carried out. In this case, it is enough to correct the diet, avoid alcoholic beverages, and get proper rest and sleep.

High levels of protein in the urine require more careful diagnosis to identify the cause of the deviation and often hospitalization. Depending on the identified disease, the following are prescribed:

• antibiotics;
• antihypertensive drugs;
• corticosteroids;
• detoxification infusions - Hemodez well cleanses the blood of toxins during intoxication, especially severe in kidney diseases;
• hemosorption, plasmapheresis.

An integral part of treatment is a diet limiting salt to 2 g/day and excluding pepper, smoked meats, and strong tea/coffee. It is imperative to limit fluid intake, especially with edema and high blood pressure accompanying proteinuria.

Why is protein in urine dangerous?

Before determining the danger of protein in urine in women, you should understand what this means for the body.

Protein in the urine is an indicator of a violation of the filtering ability of the kidney membranes. Together with large protein molecules, red blood cells can be washed out of the blood, which leads to anemia and aggravation of the patient’s condition.

Proteins are the building blocks of all cells in the body. When it is lost, the processes of formation of new cells are disrupted. An increased protein level in urine leads to a slowdown in the regeneration of tissues of organs and systems, thereby delaying the healing process.

Proteinuria during pregnancy is fraught with oxygen starvation of the fetus and its underdevelopment. In severe cases, this condition threatens the development of gestosis, which provokes premature birth and increases the risk of intrauterine fetal death by 5 times.

Protein in the urine, or proteinuria, is an increased concentration of proteins (protein inclusions) in a urine test. Normally, protein components are found in all biological fluids of the body. If a general urine test reveals elevated levels, this means that kidney function is impaired. In the absence of pathologies, the amount of proteins in urine is 0.14 g/l. Proteinuria indicates inflammation of the renal tubular system or disruption of the glomerular filter.

When is a protein test ordered?

Determination of protein in urine indicates a violation of the filtration function of the kidneys. Most often, proteinuria is temporary and therefore is not a pathological symptom. According to statistics, it is found in 17% of people of different age groups, but only 2% of them are diagnosed with serious illnesses.

To understand what the increased protein content in the fluid indicates, additional examinations are carried out - ultrasound of the kidneys, biochemical urine analysis, contrast-enhanced CT scan, etc.

The analysis is prescribed when there is a change in the physical characteristics of urine - odor, transparency, color, density. Patients with proteinuria complain of a burning sensation when emptying the bladder, fatigue, and drowsiness. To determine the cause of pathological symptoms, a general urinalysis (urinalysis) is prescribed.

Indications for analysis:

• routine examination when pregnant women are registered at the dispensary;
• congestive heart failure;
• monitoring the effectiveness of diabetes treatment;
• suspicion of genitourinary diseases (prostatitis, urethritis, cystitis, urolithiasis);
• recent surgical interventions;
• control of therapy for intoxication with poisons and drugs;
• suspected urinary tract cancer;
• prolonged hypothermia of the body.

Most of the protein that ends up in urine is excreted during the daytime. The peak concentration occurs during the period of physical activity.

What tests detect protein in urine?

Pathological swelling of the limbs, frequent dizziness, chills, chronic fatigue are signs of proteinuria. With typical complaints, patients turn to a therapist. The doctor conducts an initial examination, palpating the kidney area. If they are enlarged, the patient is prescribed:

• general urinalysis (UCA);
• clinical blood test.

If traces of protein are found in the biomaterial, the person is referred to a urologist or nephrologist. To make an accurate diagnosis, additional determination methods are used:

• Quantitative method. A coloring pigment containing molybdenum ions is added to the urine sample. They form compounds with proteins, by which their content is determined.
• Calculation of the creatinine/protein ratio in a portion of urine. In the absence of pathologies, per 1 g of creatinine there is no more than 0.2 g of protein.
• Daily urine collection. Normally, the level of protein components in urine per day does not exceed 0.15 g.

If more than 0.15-0.2 g of protein enters the urine per day, proteinuria (albuminuria) is diagnosed. More precisely, the composition of sediment in the urine is determined during biochemical analysis. Normally, no more than 20% of protein inclusions are immunoglobulins, another 40% are mucoproteins and the same amount are albumins.

The norm of protein in urine in women, men and children

Elevated protein in a urine test is referred to as proteinuria. Normally it should not be detected. But in urology there is an acceptable concentration of protein inclusions. In this case, they talk about traces of protein in urine. The doctor comes to a similar conclusion if the concentration of proteins in the urine sample does not exceed the upper threshold - 0.15 g/l.

If protein is found in the biomaterial and there is a lot of it, this indicates a violation of the filtration mechanism of the kidneys. Normally, it should be no higher than 0.14-0.15 g/l.

• time of analysis;
• general condition of the child;
• taking medications.

Amount of protein in urine in children:

Pregnant women and women in labor:

In men and non-pregnant women aged 17 to 60 years, protein should not exceed 0.15 mg/l.

What does it mean if elevated protein is detected?

Classification of proteinuria is carried out taking into account different criteria:

• cause;
• protein concentration in urine sample;
• source of protein components.

Depending on the provoking factors, proteinuria can be physiological or pathological. In the first case, the increase in the concentration of proteins in the urine is not associated with diseases, and in the second, it is caused by malfunctions of the urinary, endocrine, cardiovascular and other systems.

Physiological proteinuria

Physiological proteinuria is an increased protein content in urine that is not associated with disease. It is provoked mainly by external factors, therefore it is temporary.

Types of proteinuria:

• working (marching) - occurs as a result of excessive physical activity, increased blood circulation;
• nutritional – provoked by the consumption of foods that increase protein in the blood;
• orthostatic – caused by prolonged standing or walking;
• emotional – manifests itself during times of strong excitement and stressful situations.

A physiological increase in proteins in the urine does not pose a health hazard. In an adult, the level of protein components in 90% of cases does not exceed 1 g/l.

Factors that provoke proteinuria include:

• sports activities;
• alcohol consumption;
• hypothermia;
• dehydration;
• allergic reaction;
• sudden change in body position;
• taking medications;
• psycho-emotional stress.

If the analysis shows a high level of protein inclusions in the urine, sometimes this indicates improper preparation for the study and collection of biomaterial:

• neglect of hygiene during analysis collection;
• violation of urine storage rules;
• collection during menstruation.

The presence of proteins in liquid is often associated with the consumption of dairy products, spicy foods, marinades, vinegar sauces, and sweets.

Possible kidney diseases

Improper kidney function is the main cause of protein in the urine. Impaired renal filter function results in insufficient reabsorption of proteins into the blood, causing them to end up in the urine. In 8 out of 10 cases, pathological proteinuria is associated with diseases of the urinary system:

• glomerulonephritis;
• kidney amyloidosis;
• nephrotic syndrome;
• kidney stone disease;
• pyelonephritis;
• kidney failure;
• hydronephrosis;
• kidney cysts;
• Sjögren's syndrome;
• damage to the tubular system.

If the protein in the liquid is increased, a blood test for tumor markers is prescribed. Sometimes proteinuria becomes a sign of tumor damage to the kidneys.

Extrarenal factors

There are 2 types of extrarenal proteinuria:

• prerenal – increased content of protein substances due to tissue breakdown;
• postrenal – caused by pathologies of the urinary system organs (ureter, urethra, bladder).

Extrarenal causes of the appearance of protein in urine:

• cystitis;
• cancer or benign tumors of the bladder;
• heart failure;
• hypertensive crisis;
• urethritis;
• urinary tract injuries;
• concussion;
• monocytic leukemia;
• tuberculosis;
• urolithiasis (bladder stones).

Extrarenal proteinuria is called false, since the increase in protein concentration in urine is not associated with kidney dysfunction.

The pathological condition is also provoked by inflammation of the prostate gland, multiple myeloma, diabetes mellitus, and congestion.

Causes of increased protein in urine in pregnant women and women in labor

During pregnancy, the female body experiences serious stress, which is associated with:

• hormonal imbalance;
• stress;
• decreased immunity;
• toxicosis;
• changing your diet;
• taking vitamin and mineral complexes.

If the protein in the urine is increased, but its level is below 0.3 g/l, this condition is considered normal. Exceeding the upper limit of normal indicates gestational pyelonephritis or preeclampsia. If the protein content reaches 5 g/day, preeclampsia, a complicated pregnancy, is diagnosed in 90% of cases.

Proteinuria after childbirth is reversible in 9 out of 10 cases and is temporary. It is provoked by excessive physical stress on the body during childbirth.

Additional Signs of High Protein Levels

Pathological proteinuria is accompanied by characteristic symptoms:

• discomfort when urinating;
• increased urine density;
• anemia;
• soreness in muscles and bones;
• dizziness;
• chronic fatigue;
• nausea;
• loose stools;
• numbness of fingers;
• swelling of the limbs;
• muscle spasms.

The risk group includes athletes, elderly people and patients who suffer from metabolic diseases - diabetes, obesity.

Dangerous consequences of proteinuria

Due to impaired kidney function, the body loses a noticeable amount of protein, which leads to:

• pulmonary edema;
• ascites (abdominal dropsy);
• puffiness of the face;
• oxygen starvation of the brain;
• loss of consciousness;
• coronary heart disease.

Albuminuria during pregnancy is fraught with fetal hypoxia, premature birth, and impaired intrauterine development of the child.

Due to the excretion of proteins, blood plasma pressure decreases. It leaks through the walls of blood vessels into the surrounding tissues and cavities. For patients with kidney failure, this is dangerously fatal.

What to do if protein in urine test is elevated

Before treating albuminuria, the reasons for the increased level of proteins in the urine are clarified. More often it is provoked by inflammation of the kidneys. To remove it and reduce the concentration of protein in the liquid, the following drugs are prescribed:

• Cefepime - destroys bacterial infection;
• Monurel – inhibits the proliferation of microbes in the urinary tract;
• Furosemide – has a diuretic effect, eliminates swelling;
• Hypoxen – prevents oxygen starvation, loss of consciousness;
• Diclofenac – relieves pain, relieves swelling and inflammation.

Treatment of proteinuria with folk remedies is carried out as an addition to drug therapy:

• Cranberry. Boil 1 cup of cake in 1 liter of water for 15 minutes. Strain and mix with 200 ml of cranberry juice. Drink 100 ml 3 times a day.
• Birch buds. 3 tbsp. l. the raw materials are steamed with 1.5 liters of hot water. Leave the thermos for 1.5-2 hours. Drink 150 ml 3-4 times a day.

To reduce protein loss, it is necessary to reduce the load on inflamed kidneys. Patients with pyelonephritis and glomerulonephritis are prescribed a diet with limited table salt, animal proteins, fast food and other foods. The basis of the diet is:

• fresh vegetables and fruits;
• boiled fish;
• cereals;
• dairy products;
• pasta;
• dietary meat;
• dried fruits.

Drink up to 2.5 liters of liquid per day, completely eliminating alcohol. Among drinks, they prefer fruit drinks and fruit juices, which shift the pH of urine towards alkalis.

How to give urine correctly so that the tests are reliable

To ensure that the research results do not have serious errors, you should:

• exclude fatty foods and alcohol 2 days before the test;
• stop taking contraceptives 3-5 days before the examination;
• wash the genitals with neutral soap;
• collect an average portion of morning urine;
• close the container with an airtight lid and place in the refrigerator;
• deliver the biomaterial to the laboratory within 1-2 hours after collection.

Urine samples are stored in the refrigerator. This prevents the formation of sediment and the proliferation of bacteria in the liquid.

Is a reduced content of protein inclusions dangerous?

The decrease in protein levels in urine is not clinically significant. Normally, protein inclusions should not be present in the urine. If they are absent, this indicates the correct functioning of the kidney filtration system.

Sometimes the absence of even the slightest impurities in the urine indicates false negative results. This is facilitated by:

• the presence of specific proteins in urine;

[06-038 ] Total protein in urine

280 rub.

Order

This is a clinical and laboratory sign of kidney damage, used to diagnose kidney diseases and monitor treatment.

SynonymsEnglish

Urine total protein, urine protein, 24-Hour Urine Protein.

Research method

Colorimetric photometric method.

Units

G/l (grams per liter), g/day. (grams per day).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

The average portion of morning urine, daily urine.

How to properly prepare for research?

1. Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
2. Avoid taking diuretics for 48 hours before donating urine (in consultation with your doctor).

General information about the study

Total protein in urine is an early and sensitive sign of primary kidney diseases and secondary nephropathies in systemic diseases. Normally, only a small amount of protein is lost in the urine due to the filtration mechanism of the renal glomerulus - a filter that prevents the penetration of large charged proteins into the primary filtrate. While low molecular weight proteins (less than 20,000 daltons) freely pass through the glomerular filter, the supply of high molecular weight albumin (65,000 daltons) is limited. Most of the protein is reabsorbed into the bloodstream in the proximal tubules of the kidney, with the result that only a small amount is ultimately excreted in the urine. About 20% of the protein secreted normally is low molecular weight immunoglobulins, and 40% each is albumin and mucoproteins secreted in the distal renal tubules. Normal protein loss is 40-80 mg per day, the release of more than 150 mg per day is called proteinuria. In this case, the main amount of protein is albumin.

It should be noted that in most cases, proteinuria is not a pathological sign. Protein in the urine is detected in 17% of the population and only 2% of them cause serious illness. In other cases, proteinuria is considered functional (or benign); it is observed in many conditions, such as fever, increased physical activity, stress, acute infectious disease, and dehydration. Such proteinuria is not associated with kidney disease, and protein loss is insignificant (less than 2 g/day). One of the types of functional proteinuria is orthostatic (postural) proteinuria, when protein in the urine is detected only after prolonged standing or walking and is absent in a horizontal position. Therefore, with orthostatic proteinuria, an analysis of total protein in the morning urine will be negative, and an analysis of 24-hour urine will reveal the presence of protein. Orthostatic proteinuria occurs in 3-5% of people under 30 years of age.

Protein in the urine also appears as a result of its excess production in the body and increased filtration in the kidneys. In this case, the amount of protein entering the filtrate exceeds the possibilities of reabsorption in the renal tubules and is ultimately excreted in the urine. This “overflow” proteinuria is also not associated with kidney disease. It can accompany hemoglobinuria with intravascular hemolysis, myoglobinuria with muscle tissue damage, multiple myeloma and other plasma cell diseases. With this type of proteinuria, it is not albumin that is present in the urine, but some specific protein (hemoglobin in hemolysis, Bence Jones protein in myeloma). In order to identify specific proteins in urine, a 24-hour urine test is used.

For many kidney diseases, proteinuria is a characteristic and constant symptom. According to the mechanism of occurrence, renal proteinuria is divided into glomerular and tubular. Proteinuria, in which protein in the urine appears as a result of damage to the basement membrane, is called glomerular. The glomerular basement membrane is the main anatomical and functional barrier to large and charged molecules; therefore, when it is damaged, proteins freely enter the primary filtrate and are excreted in the urine. Damage to the basement membrane can occur primarily (in idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis) or secondary, as a complication of a disease (in diabetic nephropathy due to diabetes mellitus). The most common is glomerular proteinuria. Diseases accompanied by damage to the basement membrane and glomerular proteinuria include lipoid nephrosis, idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis and other primary glomerulopathies, as well as diabetes mellitus, connective tissue diseases, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis and other secondary glomerulopathies. Glomerular proteinuria is also characteristic of kidney damage associated with certain medications (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, penicillamine, lithium, opiates). The most common cause of glomerular proteinuria is diabetes mellitus and its complication – diabetic nephropathy. The early stage of diabetic nephropathy is characterized by the secretion of a small amount of protein (30-300 mg/day), the so-called microalbuminuria. As diabetic nephropathy progresses, protein loss increases (macroalbuminemia). The degree of glomerular proteinuria varies, often exceeding 2 g per day and can reach more than 5 g of protein per day.

When protein reabsorption function in the renal tubules is impaired, tubular proteinuria occurs. As a rule, protein loss with this option does not reach such high values ​​as with glomerular proteinuria, and amounts to up to 2 g per day. Impaired protein reabsorption and tubular proteinuria are accompanied by hypertensive nephroangiosclerosis, urate nephropathy, intoxication with lead and mercury salts, Fanconi syndrome, as well as drug-induced nephropathy when using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and some antibiotics. The most common cause of tubular proteinuria is hypertension and its complication – hypertensive nephroangiosclerosis.

An increase in protein in the urine is observed in infectious diseases of the urinary system (cystitis, urethritis), as well as in renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer.

The loss of a significant amount of protein in the urine (more than 3-3.5 g/l) leads to hypoalbuminemia, a decrease in blood oncotic pressure and both external and internal edema (edema of the lower extremities, ascites). Significant proteinuria provides an unfavorable prognosis for chronic renal failure. Persistent loss of small amounts of albumin does not cause any symptoms. The danger of microalbuminuria is the increased risk of coronary heart disease (especially myocardial infarction).

Quite often, as a result of a variety of reasons, the analysis of morning urine for total protein is false positive. Therefore, proteinuria is diagnosed only after repeated testing. If two or more tests of the morning urine sample are positive for total protein, proteinuria is considered persistent, and the examination is supplemented by an analysis of 24-hour urine for total protein.

Testing morning urine for total protein is a screening method for detecting proteinuria. It does not allow assessment of the degree of proteinuria. In addition, the method is sensitive to albumin, but does not detect low molecular weight proteins (for example, Bence Jones protein in myeloma). In order to determine the degree of proteinuria in a patient with a positive morning urine sample for total protein, 24-hour urine is also tested for total protein. If multiple myeloma is suspected, 24-hour urine is also analyzed, and it is necessary to conduct additional research for specific proteins - electrophoresis. It should be noted that analysis of 24-hour urine for total protein does not differentiate the variants of proteinuria and does not reveal the exact cause of the disease, so it must be supplemented with some other laboratory and instrumental methods.

What is the research used for?

• For the diagnosis of lipoid nephrosis, idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis and other primary glomerulopathies.
• For the diagnosis of kidney damage in diabetes mellitus, systemic connective tissue diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus), amyloidosis and other multiorgan diseases with possible kidney involvement.
• For the diagnosis of kidney damage in patients at increased risk of chronic renal failure.
• To assess the risk of developing chronic renal failure and coronary heart disease in patients with kidney disease.
• To assess renal function during treatment with nephrotoxic drugs: aminoglycosides (gentamicin), amphotericin B, cisplatin, cyclosporine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, diclofenac), ACE inhibitors (enalapril, ramipril), sulfonamides, penicillin, thiazide, furosemide and some others.

When is the study scheduled?

• For symptoms of nephropathy: edema of the lower extremities and periorbital region, ascites, weight gain, arterial hypertension, micro- and gross hematuria, oliguria, increased fatigue.
• For diabetes mellitus, systemic connective tissue diseases, amyloidosis and other multi-organ diseases with possible kidney involvement.
• With existing risk factors for chronic renal failure: arterial hypertension, smoking, heredity, age over 50 years, obesity.
• When assessing the risk of developing chronic renal failure and coronary heart disease in patients with kidney disease.
• When prescribing nephrotoxic drugs: aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cisplatin, cyclosporine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ACE inhibitors, sulfonamides, penicillins, thiazide diuretics, furosemide and some others.

What do the results mean?

Reference values ​​(average morning urine sample)

Concentration:

Reference values ​​(daily urine)

Highlight:

after heavy physical activity

Reasons for increased levels of total protein in urine:

1. Kidney diseases:

• primary kidney diseases: lipoid nephrosis, idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis, IgA glomerulonephritis, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis, Fanconi syndrome, acute tubulointerstitial nephritis;
• kidney damage in systemic diseases: diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, systemic connective tissue diseases, amyloidosis, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, preeclampsia, urate nephropathy, malignant neoplasms (lungs, gastrointestinal tract, blood), sickle cell anemia, etc.;
• kidney damage during treatment with nephrotoxic drugs: aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cisplatin, cyclosporine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ACE inhibitors, sulfonamides, penicillins, thiazides, furosemide and some others;
• kidney damage due to poisoning with lead and mercury salts;
• renal cell carcinoma.

2. Increased protein production and filtration in the body (overflow proteinuria):

• multiple myeloma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia;
• hemoglobinuria with intravascular hemolysis;
• myoglobinuria due to damage to muscle tissue.

3. Transient (benign) proteinuria.

In this article we will look at what can cause protein to appear in urine.

Passing through the kidneys, the blood is filtered, as a result only those substances that the body needs remain in it, and the rest is excreted in the urine.

Protein molecules are large, and the filtering system of the renal corpuscles does not allow them to pass through. However, due to inflammation or other pathological reasons, the integrity of the tissues in the nephrons is disrupted, and the protein passes freely through their filters.

Protein is one of the possible deviations in the general analysis. The most accurate determination of the composition of urine can be obtained from biochemical studies. What does protein in urine mean? A condition in which its level is elevated is medically called “albuminuria” or “proteinuria.”

Protein is the main building material in the human body. It is present in all its organs, tissues and environments. Normally, protein in urine is detected in very small quantities, since the kidneys carefully filter it out during reabsorption processes. An increase in values ​​may be the result of physiological (stress, diet, etc.) or pathological (oncology, pathologies of the genitourinary system, etc.) reasons.

What does protein in the urine of a man and a woman mean is interesting to many.

It performs important functions in the body:

• promote the construction of new cells and the formation of intercellular connections;
• provides an immune response to external or internal stimuli;
• forms colloid-osmotic (oncotic) blood pressure;
• takes part in the creation of enzymes that play a special role in biochemical reactions.

Increased protein in urine: causes

The presence of small levels of protein is due to diet, physical activity and minor health problems.

If an infectious, inflammatory or other pathological process occurs in the filtration system of the kidneys, then various inclusions are detected in the urine, including globulins - large protein compounds.

It is important to find out what protein in urine means.

The excretion of large amounts of it in the urine is called proteinuria. If more than 3 g of protein is excreted from the body per day, then this is a reason to suspect dysfunction of the glomerular renal system. Proteinuria that lasts more than three months indicates chronic kidney disease. Losing more than 3.5 g of protein per day can lead to nephrotic syndrome (mass swelling and increased cholesterol levels).

What else causes protein in urine?

In addition, the loss of proteins may be due to a violation of their reabsorption (reabsorption into the blood) in the proximal renal tubule. There are several reasons for this condition:

• infectious or inflammatory processes;
• side effects from certain medications;
• nephrological diseases in the chronic stage, etc.

People at risk for high levels of protein in urine include:

• people over 65 years of age;
• patients with diabetes;
• children with weak immune systems;
• patients with obesity of various types;
• women during pregnancy;
• athletes.

It should be noted that in men and women, the reasons for the increase in protein concentration in the urine are almost the same, with the exception of cases when such a condition is provoked by pathologies of the reproductive system.

Indications for analysis

Why protein appeared in the urine should be determined by a doctor. The analysis is prescribed if the following clinical symptoms are present:

• pain, discomfort, itching or burning when urinating;
• feeling of insufficient emptying of the bladder;
• pain in joints and bones, bone fragility (due to loss of protein);
• constant weakness and drowsiness, increased fatigue;
• frequent attacks of dizziness, fainting (may indicate accumulation of calcium in the blood);
• pathological swelling;
• numbness or tingling of fingers;
• attacks of fever or chills, hyperthermia without an established cause;
• chronic anemia (low hemoglobin);
• cramps, muscle spasms;
• digestive disorders (dyspeptic symptoms, appetite disturbances) without an established cause.

In addition, testing for protein in urine is prescribed for the following diseases:

• systemic pathologies of any form;
• diagnosis of diseases of the genitourinary system: cystitis, pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, renal failure, prostatitis, glomerulonephritis;
• diabetes mellitus;
• childhood infections and diseases;
• in the diagnosis of myeloma (oncological tumor of plasma cells);
• monitoring the effectiveness of intoxication therapy (poisoning with snake venom, heavy metals, drug overdose);
• oncological diseases of the genitourinary system;
• injuries or massive burns;
• congestive heart failure;
• prolonged hypothermia of the body;
• recent surgery.

Physiological proteinuria

In cases of slight or one-time excess of protein norms in the urine, functional (physiological) causes should first be excluded. Among them are the following:

• hyperthermia not associated with a disease of the genitourinary system;
• long-term physical activity, sports activities, heavy lifting;
• prolonged hypothermia;
• a sharp change in position immediately before delivery of the biomaterial;
• emotional stress;
• long-term stay “on your feet”;
• dehydration, insufficient fluid intake;
• taking medications that can increase the concentration of protein in the urine;
• allergic reactions;
• pregnancy period (the increasing size of the uterus puts pressure on the kidneys, which affects their filtration function).

Increased by nutrition

So, we continue to understand why protein appears in the urine. This may occur due to the consumption of such products:

• protein without heat treatment (raw eggs, dairy products, fish and meat);
• confectionery, sweets;
• too hot, salty or spicy dishes;
• alcoholic drinks, including beer;
• vinegar-based sauces;
• large volume of mineral water.

Pathological proteinuria

If, when deciphering a general urine test in adults, an increase in indicators is detected again, it is advisable to exclude the following pathologies: infectious disease in the genitourinary system, inflammation of the kidneys, bladder, renal failure, cystitis, nephrotic syndrome, nephritis, disruption of the renal tubules, diseases of the reproductive system in women and men, oncological pathologies of the kidneys, leukemia (blood cancer), cysts of the genitourinary system, myeloma. Pathologies affecting the transmission of impulses (concussion, epilepsy, stroke), sickle cell anemia, heart and vascular diseases are also excluded.

Renal and extrarenal proteinuria

The reasons for increased protein in the urine are not always easy to determine.

Renal proteinuria is of two types - tubular and tubular.

Tubular proteinuria is observed with:

• immunosuppressive therapy;
• acute interstitial nephritis;
• Sjögren's syndrome;
• long-term use of NSAIDs;
• cryoglobulinemia (presence of cryoglobulin proteins in the blood that cause systemic vasculitis).

Glomerular proteinuria, which occurs due to damage to the glomeruli, which is observed in various forms of glomerulonephritis.

Extrarenal proteinuria can be prerenal or postrenal. Overflow proteinuria develops as a result of increased production of atypical low molecular weight proteins, causing acute kidney damage. It occurs in diseases such as rhabdomyolysis (the process of destruction of muscle cells) and multiple myeloma.

The causes of postrenal proteinuria are infections, urolithiasis, and various tumor processes in the kidneys. What does protein in urine mean in women?

Proteinuria while expecting a baby

Reference values ​​during this period are 0-0.3 g/l 2. What causes protein in the urine of pregnant women?

If these indicators exceed acceptable standards, then the patient’s risk of developing gestational pyelonephritis increases. An increased level in the later stages (3rd trimester) is a reason to suspect gestosis, which is a serious complication manifested by increased pressure, massive swelling and muscle cramps. With pathological proteinuria, a pregnant woman experiences a general deterioration in health, chronic drowsiness and weakness, and high blood pressure. At the same time, the likelihood of developing oxygen starvation of the fetus, developmental disorders, miscarriage and premature birth increases. In addition, in the case of severe proteinuria, the likelihood of intrauterine fetal death increases 5 times.

Interpretation of a general urine test in adults

Deciphering requires the necessary medical qualifications, so experts do not recommend interpreting the results independently. This laboratory test is highly informative, easy to carry out and is considered fundamental in the diagnosis of any disease.

Parameters included in the general urine test:

• organoleptic indicators (smell, color, volume, foaminess, transparency);
• physicochemical values ​​(acidity, density);
• biochemical indicators (sugar, protein, ketone bodies, urobilin);
• microscopic examination of sediment (leukocytes, erythrocytes, epithelial cells, casts, bacteria, salt crystals, fungi).

Only a doctor can evaluate the results obtained during the study and take into account the characteristics of the patient’s condition.

Why might it be necessary to determine protein in urine?

Diagnostics when the indicator deviates from the norm

As already mentioned, there is a daily norm for protein excreted in the urine, so any deviations from it should be the basis for a thorough medical examination. In order to accurately determine whether there is a particular pathology in the body, you should contact a nephrologist or urologist. If protein is detected in the urine in late pregnancy, then not only a doctor in the field of nephrology or urology, but also a therapist or gynecologist can solve this problem. Diagnostic measures include the following mandatory procedures:

• Ultrasound of the bladder and kidneys;
• MRI of the kidneys;
• radioisotope diagnostics for the presence of various urological diseases;
• urodynamic diagnostics;
• uroflowmetry.

In addition to instrumental diagnostic techniques, the patient must undergo a urine test for traces of albumin and protein.

How to lower the level?

The treatment course to eliminate this problem depends on the factors that provoked it. If an increased protein content in the urine is detected, specialized therapy is prescribed aimed at eliminating the underlying disease. Due to the fact that this condition has many causes, a comprehensive diagnosis is necessary. First of all, the urinary system is examined.

Most often, when there is a high protein content in the urine, experts prescribe the following medications:

• antibiotics, the action of which should be aimed at eliminating a specific pathogen, previously determined using laboratory tests;
• anti-inflammatory drugs;
• medications that can lower blood pressure;
• antihistamines;
• cytostatics (if necessary);
• glucocorticosteroids;
• painkillers, if the patient experiences severe pain.

As a rule, after eliminating the underlying pathology that provoked the change in protein levels in the urine, this value is normalized.

Preparing for analysis

In order for the analysis to give the most accurate result, the patient needs to know how to collect urine to detect daily proteinuria.

For urine, you need to purchase a special container. 24 hours before urine collection, you should avoid spicy, fatty, rich and salty foods, as well as vegetables, citrus fruits, and fatty foods. In addition, you should postpone taking medications for some time. Women of reproductive age should wait for urine tests if they are menstruating during this period.

When collecting urine, the genitals must be clean, otherwise the result will be unreliable. After collecting the liquid, cover the jar tightly with a lid and place it in a cool, dark place. The biomaterial can be stored for a maximum of two hours before testing.

We looked at what increased protein in the urine means.

The kidney is a paired organ that, by producing and excreting urine, regulates the chemical homeostasis of the body. The main function is carried out through filtration and secretion of blood plasma.

Protein in the urine appears as a result of increased permeability of the glomerular capillaries or impaired reabsorption.

In contact with

Classmates

From the capillary glomeruli, blood is filtered into the capsule, and primary urine is formed. Moving further along the nephron tubules, under the action of enzymes, nutrients are broken down and reabsorbed into the blood - secondary urine is formed. It contains metabolic products of complex protein molecules.

When protein is detected in the urine, this means that the filtration capacity of the kidney tubules is impaired. Sometimes this happens with healthy kidneys and is associated with the natural physiological functioning of the body, which determines why protein appears in the urine.

Footprints

If a healthy person has traces of protein in their urine, this is normal. A slight increase does not cause clinical manifestations.

The minimum amount of residual protein is determined for each person. An increase in the level is a signal for examination and additional tests.

Proteinuria

The condition when the levels are elevated is called proteinuria. It can be physiological and pathological. In the first case, the predisposing factors are:

• physical overload;
• hypothermia;
• injuries, burns;
• taking antibiotics;
• nervous disorders;
• excess protein products on the menu.

The physiological form does not require treatment and goes away on its own after eliminating the cause.

Types of pathological proteinuria

Pathological has several forms, which means a certain amount of protein in the urine:

1. Light stage - from 300 mg to 1 g per day.
2. With a moderate degree, 1–3 g are detected.
3. Severe or severe form, characterized by a concentration of more than 3 g.

Acceptable rate

If the qualitative reaction showed the presence of protein, its quantitative value is determined. Protein is designated in a urine test as grams per liter (g/l) or grams, milligrams per day (g/mg/day). Each laboratory uses different reagents. The pyrogallol method determines the normal limit: protein in the urine is 0.1 g/l. An analysis using 3% sulfosalicylic acid considers the norm for protein in the urine to be up to 0.03 g/l.

In general analysis

The physical and chemical properties of urine are assessed, the result suggests what the protein in the urine indicates. Indications for testing are as follows:

• preventive examinations;
• suspicion of squirrel;
• urinary tract diseases;
• control of indicators during treatment.

Determination of protein in urine is important in differential diagnosis, since the number of diseases with a similar sign is quite large.

With daily monitoring

If an excess is observed in the general analysis, it is necessary to determine the daily protein in the urine; its norm is from 30 to 50 mg per day.

Urine analysis for protein is collected throughout the day, starting with the second portion and ending with the first portion the next day. From the total volume, 150 ml of the resulting amount is poured into a special container and delivered to the laboratory no later than 2 hours later. The accompanying document must indicate the daily volume.

Total protein in urine is determined during annual examinations. This is especially important for patients with a family history, people over 50 years old, and those with bad habits.

High protein levels are a sign of impaired filtration or reabsorption by the kidneys. Proteinuria can be transient, associated with general diseases, or permanent, due to renal pathology. Violation of the filtration barrier leads to loss of albumin; with a decrease in the reabsorption function, globulins are lost. Increased protein in the urine can be caused by the following diseases and conditions:

• glomerulonephritis;
• nephrotic syndrome;
• amyloidosis;
• acute renal necrosis
• acute interstitial nephritis;
• diabetes;
• malignant hypertension;
• Fanconi syndrome.

Protein in the urine of more than 0.3 g per day is due to the destruction of kidney cell elements during prolonged stagnation. Increased protein in the urine has other causes. An increase in the number of protein cells capable of filtration is a consequence of polycystic disease, multiple myeloma, and myoglobinuria.

For males, the protein norm is 0.03 g/l; in the average daily portion, 0.1 g is acceptable. An increase in values ​​to 1 g/l indicates a mild stage of proteinuria and may be associated with the following physiological factors:

• heavy work or sports activities;
• hypothermia;
• eating protein foods;
• alcohol;
• emotional disorders and stress;
• using steroids.

Incorrect sampling of biomaterial can change the indicators.

Protein in urine is 0.2 g, which can occur during exercise and stress. An increase in protein in women is a consequence of the following reasons:

• food high in protein;
• hard work, long periods of standing in an upright position;
• dehydration, hypothermia;
• obesity.

Excess protein can cause the following conditions:

• general diseases;
• pathologies of the structure of the renal system;
• inflammation of the genitourinary organs;
• intoxication.

The appearance of protein in the urine is associated with hormonal changes at different stages of a woman’s life: puberty, reproductive, menopause.

The volume of circulating blood in pregnant women increases, and the load on the kidneys increases. Therefore, a urine protein test, ideally negative, is informative and important. Normal indicators, without any manifestations, are:

Sometimes deviations occur due to overwork, stress or fever. The culprit may be poor hygiene or violation of the test collection procedure. If a pregnant woman has a lot of protein in her urine, this indicates serious problems:

• pyelonephritis;
• nephropathy;
• cystitis;
• glomerulonephritis.

Protein in urine is dangerous at levels of 1.7 g/l.

In babies under 1 month of age, proteinuria is considered normal. In infants, 0.03–0.06 g of protein per day is acceptable. Some factors can cause an increase of up to 1 g/l in the following categories of children:

1. Active movements of infants lead to the consumption of strength and energy. Early complementary feeding, simultaneous introduction of minced meat and cottage cheese.
2. Sick and recovered children due to taking a large number of medications.
3. Excessive activity in boys during puberty.

An increase is possible due to insufficient treatment of the child’s genitals before collecting urine and “dirty” dishes.

Why is it dangerous?

High protein, while a symptom, does not pose a danger in itself. However, it signals serious disorders in the body, usually associated with the kidneys, which do not always manifest themselves as painful symptoms. These are diseases such as:

• glomerulonephritis;
• nephrotic syndrome;
• polycystic kidney disease;
• nephritis;
• acute renal necrosis;
• kidney cancer

Diabetes mellitus and malignant hypertension are also manifested by deviation of protein in urine from reference values.

At high rates, self-medication is unacceptable. Complications can be prevented if you consult a doctor in time.

What to do?

Proteinuria is confirmed after receiving several tests with a positive result. If there is increased protein in the urine, sometimes you do not need to do anything; it is enough to repeat the test in compliance with all the rules to get a negative result. If physiological disorders cause protein to appear in the urine, treatment is not carried out.

It is necessary to analyze your daily routine, change your diet, and reduce physical activity. If you experience frequent emotional distress and stress, your doctor may recommend mild sedatives.

Is treatment required?

For inflammatory and pathological conditions, proteinuria is only a symptom. To normalize the indicators, it is necessary to find the cause. Additional tests and instrumental diagnostics are required:

1. Antibiotics are used to treat kidneys of bacterial origin.
2. In case of gestosis, inpatient treatment is carried out to restore kidney function. The therapy is as gentle as possible, aimed at preserving the life of the mother and child.
3. Diabetes mellitus, along with medications, requires adherence to a diet.
4. Hypertension requires constant blood pressure monitoring.

Test strips for home

Visually determining what protein looks like in the urine is possible with long-term proteinuria. Turbidity and the appearance of sediment means the presence of protein and.

To quickly determine the components of urine and monitor indicators in case of illness, a strip test is used. The express method is used at home and in medical institutions to adjust the course of treatment. Indicator test strips for protein in urine react at albumin concentrations ranging from 0.1 g/l.

What does Bence Jones protein mean?

The growth of malignant tumors is accompanied by the content of low molecular weight protein in the patient’s urine, which consists of light immunoglobulins. It is produced by plasma cells. It moves through the bloodstream, is not absorbed in the kidneys, but is excreted through urination.

A urine test for Bence Jones protein is a marker of cancer (it is absent in a healthy person). As a result of laboratory chemical reactions, the resulting precipitate is confirmation, for example, of myeloma.

Conclusion

1. Isolated proteinuria occurs without renal dysfunction as a result of physiological causes or other diseases (accompanied by fever, heart failure).
2. More often, the appearance of protein in the urine indicates the presence of a pathological process in the body. This changes the functioning of the filtration system, which allows albumin to pass into the urine.
3. A decrease in the kidneys' ability to reabsorb leads to loss of globulins.
4. Some diseases lead to the growth of atypical cells that can overcome the filtration barrier.

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