Last reviewed 09/2021

Indications for testing for proteinuria

Dipstick urinalysis for protein is indicated

• As part of the initial assessment of patients with
  • if a patient has a newly discovered GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2
  • if a patient has newly discovered haematuria
  • newly diagnosed hypertension
  • if there is unexplained oedema
  • in cases of suspected heart failure
  • suspected multisystem disease, e.g. SLE, systemic vasculitis
  • diabetes mellitus
• As part of the annual monitoring of patients with
  • biopsy-proven glomerulonephritis
  • reflux nephropathy
  • asymptomatic microscopic haematuria
  • asymptomatic proteinuria
  • Diabetes mellitus (patients with diabetes mellitus should also have annual testing for albumin:creatinine ratio if the dipstick urinalysis for protein is negative)
• Monitoring for proteinuria is also required for patients receiving treatment with gold and penicillamine
  • recommendations for frequency of monitoring in the British National Formulary:
    • penicillamine
      • before commencing treatment and then every 1-2 weeks for the first 2 months, monthly thereafter, and in the week after any dose increase
    • intramuscular gold
      • before each intramuscular injection
      • for oral gold, monthly

Reference:

1. The Renal Association (May 2006).UK CKD Guidelines