Microalbumin Test
2,560 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
albumin: creatinine ratio, random urine
Purpose
The Microalbumin Test measures small amounts of albumin (a type of protein) in the urine, which are too low to be detected by standard dipstick tests.
This test is important because even a slight increase in urinary albumin can be an early indicator of kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension. Detecting and managing microalbuminuria early can help prevent progression to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
Other medical laboratory tests that can be performed alongside the Microalbumin test include serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urine creatinine, HbA1c, and blood pressure measurement.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation is required.
Samples
10ml with a minimum volume of 2ml of urine, randomly collected in a plastic urine container. Collect random urine without preservatives and a pH of 4-8. Store the sample at room temperature.
Reference Range
Normal: 0-29 mg/g creatinine, moderately increased: 30-300mg/g creatinine, severely increased: >300 mg/g creatinine.
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of receipt of samples
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
The Microalbumin test results can indicate the following:
Normal levels of albumin in urine suggest healthy kidney function and no significant damage.
Moderately elevated levels (microalbuminuria) may be an early sign of kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or high blood pressure. At this stage, kidney damage may still be reversible or manageable with lifestyle and medication changes.
Severely elevated levels (macroalbuminuria or overt proteinuria) usually indicate more advanced kidney disease. This may suggest progression toward chronic kidney disease (CKD) or may be a sign of nephropathy.
Fever, exercise, or dehydration can sometimes temporarily raise albumin levels, so healthcare providers often recommend repeat testing to confirm if the elevation persists. For more on the Microalbumin Test, read this study.