MLT GlobeUrine albumin–creatinine ratio (UACR)
Kidney Function · also called ACR, Microalbumin/creatinine ratio
What it measures
UACR measures small amounts of albumin in urine relative to creatinine on a spot sample. It detects early kidney damage in diabetes and hypertension and is used to stage and monitor CKD.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Random urine, preferably first morning void
- Tube: Urine top
- Preparation: Avoid vigorous exercise, fever, urinary infection or menstruation in the 24 hours before; confirm abnormal results on repeat samples.
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| Normal (A1) | <30 (<3) mg/g (mg/mmol) |
| Moderately increased (A2) | 30–300 (3–30) mg/g (mg/mmol) |
| Severely increased (A3) | >300 (>30) mg/g (mg/mmol) |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Diabetic kidney disease
- Hypertensive kidney damage
- Glomerulonephritis
- Heart failure
- Transient: exercise, fever, UTI
Method
Albumin by immunoturbidimetry; creatinine by enzymatic or Jaffe method
Good to know
Two of three samples over 3–6 months should be raised before diagnosing persistent albuminuria. Replaces the older term 'microalbuminuria'.
Related tests
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