Urine Protein Electrophoresis

The test works by placing a urine sample on a special paper or gel and applying an electric current. The different proteins move at different speeds and form visible bands. By comparing those bands, the lab can tell how much of each type of protein is in your urine.

UPEP is often ordered when a routine urine test shows protein in your urine, or when your provider wants to look at the pattern of proteins your kidneys are letting through.

Normal results usually show only very small amounts of protein in your urine, with no unusual bands of globulins.

Higher than normal levels of certain proteins, or unusual bands, may be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes-related kidney damage, multiple myeloma, nephrotic syndrome, a urinary tract infection, inflammation, or amyloidosis.

An abnormal result on its own does not diagnose a specific condition. Your provider will look at your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to understand what your UPEP results mean for you.