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Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

The UACR measures the amount of albumin (a type of protein) compared to creatinine in a urine sample, helping assess kidney function.

Quick summary

UACR is a key diagnostic tool for detecting kidney damage, especially in early stages.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
mg/g
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Urine Albumin, Abbott Urine Albumin, Siemens Urine Albumin
interpretation: {"text":"UACR less than 30 mg/g indicates normal kidney function.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"UACR above 30 mg/g may suggest kidney damage or disease.","label":"Elevated"}

Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) is a test that compares the levels of albumin, a protein, to creatinine, a waste product, in a urine sample. This ratio helps in evaluating kidney function and detecting kidney damage.

A normal UACR is generally less than 30 mg/g. Values above this threshold may indicate kidney disease, such as diabetic nephropathy or other conditions that cause kidney damage.

Early detection of elevated UACR levels is crucial for managing and preventing further kidney damage. It is often used in conjunction with other tests to diagnose and monitor kidney health.

Frequently asked questions

What does a high UACR indicate?
A high UACR may indicate kidney damage or disease, such as diabetic nephropathy or other conditions affecting kidney function.
How is UACR different from other kidney function tests?
UACR specifically measures the ratio of albumin to creatinine, providing a more accurate assessment of kidney damage than tests that measure either substance alone.
  1. 1
    National Kidney Foundation: Understanding UACRSource
  2. 2
    American Diabetes Association: Kidney DiseaseSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy