Variation of Protein Content of Urine in a 24-hour Period

Abstract

Abstract Variation of the protein content in urine of patients known to excrete protein in excessive amounts was studied. Variation in different specimens obtained from the same patient on a particular day and from day to day were studied. A total of 293 urine specimens excreted over a 3- to 6-day period by 25 patients were examined. No particular pattern of protein excretion was observed. The morning specimen was not the specimen with the highest protein content. This could occur at any time during the day. It is suggested that only a 24-hour collection can give a true indication of protein spillage. A commercial paper strip test was compared with the qualitative sulfosalicylic acid reaction and a quantitative biuret procedure. The strip test is satisfactory for screening purposes except for highly colored urines, in which case the sulfosalicylic acid procedure is recommended.