URINE MICROALBUMIN
A urine microalbumin test, also known as a microalbumin creatinine ratio (ACR) test, measures the amount of albumin in your urine to check for kidney disease. Albumin is a protein in your blood that healthy kidneys filter out, so only a small amount or none at all usually passes into your urine. If your kidneys are damaged, larger amounts of albumin can pass into your urine.
A urine microalbumin test can help identify kidney disease that can occur as a complication of diabetes. It can also be used to monitor kidney function in people with kidney disease or who take medications that can affect the kidneys.
Here are some things to know about urine microalbumin tests:
Preparation
You don't need to prepare for the test, but you should let your healthcare provider know about all medications, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you take.
Sample collection
You can provide a random urine sample or collect urine over a 24-hour period. The sample should be collected in a plastic urine tube and should be 5 mL in volume.
Results
A very low ACR value usually means your kidneys are functioning normally, while a very high ACR level indicates more severe kidney disease. A slightly raised ACR level may indicate early-stage kidney disease.
