Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine
Understanding Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine
What is Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine?
A Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine test helps assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney damage, particularly related to conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), or other kidney diseases. It measures the very small (or "micro") amounts of albumin and creatinine in the urine.
Albumin is one of the major proteins required for the body’s growth, development, and tissue repair. Microalbuminuria refers to the presence of small amounts of albumin in the urine when the kidneys are not functioning optimally. A Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine is a more accurate way to measure the amount of albumin in urine than microalbumin alone.
This test is beneficial for the early detection of kidney dysfunction, particularly in individuals with diabetes and hypertension, as these conditions can increase the risk of kidney damage. A Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine test may also be used for routine monitoring of kidney function in these populations. It helps assess the risk of progression to more severe kidney disease and allows for timely interventions to prevent further damage.
Individuals with a family history of kidney disease, those suffering from heart disease, those taking medications that may affect kidney function, or those with unexplained swelling (edema) may also undergo a Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine test for assessing kidney function. It may also be used to monitor the treatment response if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease or are diabetic.
Before the test, inform your doctor of all the medicines and supplements you take, as some may affect the test results. Drink enough water to be able to submit a urine sample for testing. Collect a mid-stream urine sample into a sterile container provided by the sample collection professional. Women are advised not to give the sample during the menstrual period unless prescribed, as it can interfere with test results.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition and formulate an overall treatment plan.
What is Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine used for?
A Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine test is done:
- As part of routine health checkups in patients with high blood pressure and type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
- To help in the diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy, a type of kidney disease associated with diabetes.
- To assess overall cardiovascular risk in addition to kidney health.
- To monitor treatment response for existing liver and kidney diseases.
What does Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine measure?
Contains 3 testsA Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio, Urine test compares albumin and creatinine excretion in your urine. Typically, the body filters out creatinine in the urine steadily. Comparing the ratio of urine albumin with creatinine in the same urine sample helps analyze if the body is excreting albumin at an increased rate. Elevated levels indicate increased urinary excretion of albumin, which can be an early sign of kidney damage that may need medical intervention.