Test Detail
Understanding the Test
Interpreting Results
FAQ's
Other Tests
Content created by
Written by
Dr. Betina Chandolia
BDS, MDS - Oral Pathology and Microbiology
Reviewed by
Dr. Ashish Ranjan
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
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Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine

Also known as Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio
You need to provide
Urine
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. Urine sample must preferably be the midstream urine (part of urine that comes after first and before the last stream). Collect the urine sample in a sealed and sterile container provided by our sample collection professional. Make sure that the container doesn't come in contact with your skin. Women are advised not to give the sample during the menstrual period unless prescribed.

Understanding Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine


What is Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine?

The Albumin/Creatinine ratio urine test is used to diagnose a kidney disease. It measures the amount of albumin in the urine and then compares it with the creatinine produced. The presence of albumin in the urine is albuminuria, an indicator of kidney disease.

The Albumin/ Creatinine ratio is done to detect early kidney disease in patients with diabetes or high blood pressure. It is also done as a part of routine health checkups in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes.

Identifying kidney disease at an early stage can help prevent serious complications. If small amounts of albumin are found in your urine, it doesn't necessarily mean you have kidney disease, this could be due to urinary tract infections or other conditions that can cause albumin to show up in urine.

What is Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine used for?

The Albumin/Creatinine Ratio, Urine is done:

  • In case if a person has been recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 

  • In case if a person had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 5 years ago to assess kidney function 

  • In case a person has type 2 Diabetes then annual testing is required 

  • In case if a person has high blood pressure for many years

 

Interpreting Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine results


Interpretations

  • A high ratio indicates kidney disease. This increased ratio is an indicator of poor kidney function 

  • Undetectable levels of albumin mean that your kidneys are functioning normally.

 

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine


Frequently Asked Questions about Albumin/Creatinine Ratio Urine

Q. What is microalbuminuria?

Microalbuminuria is a condition where the levels of albumin protein in urine are more than normal. It is an early sign of kidney problems. The risk of developing microalbuminuria increases in the case of diabetic and hypertensive patients. The patients having microalbuminuria are also at increased risk of having heart disease.

Q. What measures can be taken to prevent microalbuminuria?

The increased levels of albumin in the body (microalbuminuria) can be due to any type of impairment in kidney function. One of the major reasons for kidney malfunctioning is diabetes. In case, if a person is diabetic, it is very important to maintain the levels of blood glucose. Blood pressure management is important because if not checked then it may cause kidney diseases. This, as a result, may affect the kidney function and may lead to release of albumin into the urine. Quitting smoking is also said to be a helpful measure to prevent microalbuminuria.

Q. What can be the other reasons for increased albumin levels in urine apart from diabetes?

Apart from diabetes, increased albumin levels in urine might be associated with high blood pressure, some of the lipid abnormalities, and some immune disorders. Other reasons might include vigorous exercise, blood in the urine, dehydration, urinary tract infection, and due to the effect of some medicines.

Q. How is the urine sample collected?

As the test is performed on the urine sample. It is essential to prevent contamination of the sample with microorganisms naturally present on the skin. During urine collection, women should spread the labia (outer lips of the vagina) while men should retract or pull back the foreskin (fold of skin covering the glans or head of the penis). Start urinating normally and let some urine flow before collecting 20 to 30 ml urine the sterilized container available from the lab or any pharmacy. After collecting the sample, finish urinating into the toilet or urinal. This process is called midstream clean catch method. The urine sample may also be collected using a catheter inserted through the urethra directly into the urinary bladder. Sample collected through a catheter usually has no contamination.
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