Microalbumin, Urine

Why Microalbumin test Microalbuminuria?

People who are diabetic or suffer from high blood pressure are susceptible to kidney damage. In early stages of kidney damage, albumin is one of the first proteins that are passed in to the urine.

Who should get tested Microalbuminuria?

• The test is used in type 1 diabetics to keep a tab on kidney damage – this is usually advised three to four years post the initial diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
• In type 2 diabetics, this test is ordered one year post the initial diagnosis of type 2 diabetes to keep a tab on kidney complications
• In patients with high blood pressure, this is a routine screening test
• This test may also be used as a screening test if a person has a family history of chronic kidney disease
• Microalbumin test may also be ordered during treatment of a kidney disease to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment

You will be asked to give a 24 hour urine sample where you collect all of your urine in a special container and this is used for analysis. A timed urine test is when you provide a urine sample first thing in the morning or after a four hour period of not urinating. If it is a random urine test or a urine dipstick test, then the results are compared and combined with a creatinine test for a more accurate picture.

Reference values for Microalbumin Urine test: < 30.0 mg/dL

More about Microalbumin

This test measures trace amounts of the protein albumin in the urine.

Other names: Microalbumin Test, Urine Albumin Test 

The basic function of kidney is to filter out the waste from the body. The kidney plays a crucial role in holding on to the healthy components like proteins. One such protein is albumin.

Interpretation of Microalbuminuria

High levels indicate damage to the kidney. Microalbumin test may also be ordered during treatment of a kidney disease to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment. Your doctor will help you interpret your report basis clinical findings and your medical history.