Albuminurelphmcnc

What is this test?

The Urine Albumin Test (Electrophoresis) measures the amount of albumin, a protein produced by the liver, in your urine. Normally, healthy kidneys filter waste from blood while keeping important proteins like albumin in the bloodstream. When kidneys are damaged, albumin leaks into urine. This test uses electrophoresis, a laboratory technique that separates proteins to accurately measure albumin levels. The test is highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of albumin (microalbuminuria) before symptoms appear, making it valuable for early kidney disease detection.

How is the test performed?

You will provide a urine sample, typically collected in a sterile container. For a random urine test, you can provide a sample at any time. For a more accurate assessment, your doctor may request a 24-hour urine collection, where you collect all urine produced in a day. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where electrophoresis separates the proteins, and the albumin concentration is measured. No special fasting or preparation is usually required, but follow your doctor's specific instructions.

Understanding your results

Results are typically reported as milligrams of albumin per gram of creatinine (mg/g). Normal urine has very little albumin (less than 30 mg/g). Microalbuminuria (30-300 mg/g) indicates early kidney damage and requires monitoring. Macroalbuminuria (more than 300 mg/g) suggests more significant kidney damage. Your doctor will interpret results based on your overall health, underlying conditions, and other test results.