Screening Tests for Proteinuria
Proteinuria is routinely detected by semi-quantitative, screening methods, like the conventional dipstick colorimetric test
(very common) and the sulfosalicylic acid (SSA) turbidimetric test (less common). The dipstick test is inexpensive and easy
to use. This test primarily measures albumin, however both the sensitivity and specificity for albumin are relatively low
with the dipstick methodology. False-negative results (decreased sensitivity) may occur in the setting of Bence Jones proteinuria,
low concentrations of urine albumin, and/or dilute or acidic urine. The conventional dipstick test has a sensitivity level
of > 30 mg/dl. False-positive results (decreased specificity) may be obtained if the urine is alkaline or highly concentrated
or the dipstick is left in contact with the urine long enough to leach out the citrate buffer that is incorporated in the
filter paper pad. False-positive results with the dipstick occur more frequently in cats compared with dogs but are common
in both species.
The SSA test is performed by mixing equal quantities of urine supernatant and 3-5% SSA in a glass test tube and grading the
turbidity that results from precipitation of protein on a 0 to 4+ scale. In addition to albumin, the SSA test can detect globulins
and Bence Jones proteins. False-positive results may occur if the urine contains radiographic contrast agents, penicillin,
cephalosporins, sulfisoxazole, or the urine preservative thymol. The protein content may also be overestimated with the SSA
test if uncentrifuged, turbid urine is analyzed. False-negative results are less common in comparison with the conventional
dipstick test due to the increased sensitivity of the SSA test for protein (> 5 mg/dl). Because of the relatively poor specificity
of the conventional dipstick analysis, many reference laboratories will confirm a positive dipstick test result for proteinuria
with the SSA test. Grading of both the color change on the dipstick test and the turbidity on the SSA test is subjective and
therefore results can vary between individuals and laboratories.
Proteinuria detected by these semi-quantitative, screening methods has historically been interpreted in light of the urine
specific gravity and urine sediment. For example, a positive dipstick reading of trace or 1+ proteinuria in hypersthenuric
urine has often been attributed to urine concentration rather than abnormal proteinuria. In addition, a positive dipstick
reading for protein in the presence of microscopic hematuria or pyuria was often attributed to urinary tract hemorrhage or
inflammation. In both examples, the interpretation may not be correct. Given the limits of the conventional dipstick test
sensitivity, any positive result for protein regardless of urine concentration may be abnormal (except in the case of false-positive
results). Likewise, hematuria and pyuria have an inconsistent effect on urine albumin concentrations; not all dogs with hematuria
and pyuria have albuminuria. 
