Skip to content

Albuminurql

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A urine albumin test detects the presence of protein (albumin) in your urine, which helps assess kidney function and detect early kidney damage.

Quick summary

{"Measures albumin (protein) in urine to check kidney health","Important for people with diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease","Normal result is negative (no albumin detected)","Positive result may indicate kidney damage requiring further testing","Simple urine test, no special preparation needed"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1753-3
Short code
UAlb
Synonyms
Albumin Ur Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Clean-catch urine container (sterile plastic container with leak-proof lid)
Units
not specified
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
1.5 not specified – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Dipstick colorimetric analysis or quantitative immunoassay (immunoturbidimetry/immunonephelometry)
CPT
82043
SNOMED
271713000
Specimen volume
Minimum 10 mL, preferably 20-50 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2-8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Frozen (-20°C): several weeks. Avoid prolonged storage at room temperature.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The urine albumin test, also known as microalbuminuria test, is a simple laboratory test that detects the presence of albumin (a type of protein) in your urine. Under normal circumstances, healthy kidneys filter waste from the blood while keeping important proteins like albumin in the bloodstream. When kidneys are damaged, they may allow albumin to leak into urine.

Why do I need this test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to: screen for early kidney damage, monitor kidney function if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, evaluate kidney disease progression, or check for conditions affecting kidney function. Early detection of albumin in urine (called microalbuminuria) is crucial because it can be the first sign of kidney disease, often before other symptoms appear.

How is the test performed?

The test requires a urine sample, which can be collected at any time. You will be asked to provide a clean-catch midstream urine sample. For a 24-hour urine test, you will collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. No special fasting or preparation is typically required, but follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.

Understanding your results

Results are typically reported as negative or positive. A negative result means no albumin was detected, which is normal. A positive result indicates albumin is present in urine, which may suggest kidney damage. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your overall health, medical history, and may order additional tests to confirm a diagnosis.

Reference range

Adult: 3.5-5.0 g/dLnot specified

Specimen: urine

No special preparation or fasting required; clean-catch midstream random urine preferred

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required before the test?
No special preparation or fasting is typically required for a routine urine albumin test. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Can exercise affect the results?
Intense exercise can temporarily increase albumin in urine. If this is a concern, your doctor may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise before the test.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates albumin is present in your urine, which may suggest kidney damage or early kidney disease. Your healthcare provider will likely order additional tests to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
How often should I have this test?
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend annual testing. The frequency depends on your individual health status and risk factors.
Can medications affect the results?
Certain medications, including some antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may affect test results. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
  1. 1
    National Kidney Foundation - AlbuminuriaSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Microalbuminuria testSource
  3. 3
    MedlinePlus - Urine albuminSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy