The quantification of total protein excreted in urine over a complete 24-hour period is a clinical laboratory procedure used to assess kidney function and diagnose proteinuria. This involves collecting all urine produced by an individual within a specified 24-hour timeframe, followed by laboratory analysis to measure the total amount of protein present. For instance, a result exceeding 150 mg/24 hours may indicate an underlying renal pathology.
Assessing protein excretion over this duration is a valuable diagnostic tool because it accounts for the natural variations in protein release throughout the day. Elevated levels can signal a range of conditions from glomerular diseases to pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. Historically, this method has been a cornerstone in nephrology, providing critical data for staging disease progression and monitoring treatment efficacy. Its accuracy and comprehensiveness, compared to spot urine protein measurements, are crucial in guiding clinical decisions.
