At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To be screened for a possible risk of developing a kidney or cardiovascular disorder
When to Get Tested?
Annually after a diagnosis of diabetes or hypertension (high blood pressure)
Sample Required?
A urine sample
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
Albumin is a protein that is present in large amounts in the blood. When kidneys are functioning properly, only tiny amounts of albumin leaks through into the urine. In kidney failure (the last stage of a slow process of decline in kidney function), large amounts of protein are spilled into the urine. A long time before this amount of damage happens, small changes in the kidney allow very small but abnormal amounts of albumin to leak through, usually as a result of having diabetes. This condition is called microalbuminuria and the test that measures this very small amount of albumin is called urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR).
How is the sample collected for testing?
You will be asked to collect an early morning sample of urine.
The Test
How is it used?
Diabetes is a very common cause of kidney failure. Studies have shown that identifying diabetics in the very early stages of kidney disease by demonstrating microalbuminuria helps patients and doctors adjust treatment. With better diabetic control and better control of other complications, such as high blood pressure, the progression of diabetic kidney disease can be slowed or prevented.
When is it requested?
UACR should be requested when a person is first diagnosed with diabetes. After that, all are usually screened annually using the UACR test. When significant levels of albumin have been found, the test may be done more frequently.
What does the test result mean?
Moderately increased UACR levels in urine indicate that a person is in one of the very early phases of developing kidney disease. Recently, studies have shown that an abnormal UACR result indicates an increased risk of developing heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) complications, especially in people with diabetes. Low levels are an indication that kidney function is normal.
Is there anything else I should know?
UACR should be performed on the first specimen of urine passed after getting up in the morning. If this is not possible a random urine specimen is acceptable.
Common Questions
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Article Sources
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