Urine Microalbumin

Urine Microalbumin is a diagnostic test that measures tiny amounts of albumin, a type of protein, in the urine. Under normal conditions, kidneys filter waste but retain proteins like albumin in the bloodstream. However, when the kidneys begin to get damaged—often due to diabetes or hypertension—small amounts of albumin can leak into the urine, a condition called microalbuminuria.

This test is important because it:

• Detects early kidney damage before symptoms appear

• Monitors kidney health in high-risk patients

• Helps in the prevention of chronic kidney disease (CKD)

The most common method for testing is the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) in a random urine sample.

ACR Interpretation:

• Less than 30 mg/g: Normal

• 30–300 mg/g: Microalbuminuria (early kidney damage)

• Over 300 mg/g: Macroalbuminuria (advanced kidney damage)

Early detection through the urine microalbumin test allows for timely lifestyle and medical interventions to slow or prevent progression of kidney disease.