Albuminurmcnc
A urine albumin test measures the amount of albumin protein in your urine, helping detect kidney damage or disease early.
{"Albumin is a protein that should remain in your blood; its presence in urine may indicate kidney problems","The test is especially important for people with diabetes or high blood pressure","Results are reported as a ratio (mg/g) or concentration (mg/L)","Early detection allows for timely treatment to prevent kidney failure","A small amount of albumin may be normal, but higher levels need medical attention"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1754-1
- Short code
- ALB/U
- Synonyms
- Albumin Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container (vacutainer with no additive)
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Critical range
- 1.5 not specified – 300 not specified
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Immunoturbidimetry
- CPT
- 82043
- SNOMED
- 271295001
- Specimen volume
- 10-50 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The urine albumin test measures the level of albumin, a protein produced by the liver, in your urine. Under normal circumstances, albumin should stay in your bloodstream as it is essential for maintaining fluid balance and transporting hormones and vitamins. When the kidneys are damaged, they may leak albumin into the urine, a condition called albuminuria or proteinuria.
Why is this test performed?
This test is primarily used to detect early kidney damage, especially in people at risk for kidney disease. It is commonly ordered for patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection of albumin in urine (called microalbuminuria) can help prevent the progression to more severe kidney damage or kidney failure.
How is the test performed?
A urine sample is collected, typically as a random sample or a 24-hour collection. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the albumin concentration. Your healthcare provider may order a spot urine test (single sample) or a timed urine collection (such as 24 hours) for more accurate results.
Understanding your results
Results are typically reported as either milligrams of albumin per gram of creatinine (mg/g) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). Normal or minimal albumin excretion is generally less than 30 mg/g. Microalbuminuria (slightly elevated levels) ranges from 30-300 mg/g, while values above 300 mg/g indicate macroalbuminuria, suggesting more significant kidney damage.
Reference range
0-20 mg/Lnot specified
No fasting required. Random urine acceptable; first morning void preferred. Avoid vigorous exercise before collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before the test?
Is the test painful?
What can cause false results?
How often should I have this test?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy