If proteins are found to be positive in urinalysis, what does it suggest?

The presence of proteins in urinalysis typically indicates some level of kidney dysfunction. When the kidneys are functioning properly, they prevent significant amounts of protein from leaking into the urine. However, when there is damage to the renal glomeruli or tubules—structures crucial for filtering blood—proteins can escape into the urine, resulting in proteinuria. This is often seen in various forms of kidney disease, such as glomerulonephritis or nephrotic syndrome.

While some conditions such as liver disease may also be associated with protein metabolism, the direct connection between protein excretion and kidney issues makes the presence of proteins in urine a clear indicator of possible kidney disease. Other options, like urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal disorders, do not have a strong correlation with protein presence in urine as a primary indication, as these conditions are more associated with other changes in urine composition, such as the presence of bacteria, nitrites, or leukocytes.