What does the presence of protein in urine indicate?

The presence of protein in urine is commonly indicative of kidney disease or infection. Under normal circumstances, the kidneys filter blood and effectively retain proteins, allowing only trace amounts to pass into the urine. When the kidneys are damaged or inflamed, as seen in various renal conditions or infections, this filtering ability is compromised, leading to higher levels of protein in the urine, a condition known as proteinuria.

This can be a key marker used in the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney health. Conditions such as glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, and systemic diseases that affect the kidneys can result in significant protein leakage into the urine. Therefore, the presence of protein is a critical sign that warrants further investigation into kidney function and overall health. While hydration, pregnancy, and dietary factors can influence protein levels in urine, the most serious and commonly associated condition with significant protein presence is related to kidney issues.