Urine Albumin/Creatinine Ratio, 24-Hour Urine
This test measures the amount of albumin (a protein) relative to creatinine in a urine sample collected over 24 hours, which helps assess kidney function.
["The urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio is a key marker for detecting early kidney damage, especially in conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5624-2
- Short code
- Cr 24h Ur-mRate
- Synonyms
- Cr 24h Ur-mRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Being Measured
Albumin is a protein normally found in the blood. Healthy kidneys keep most albumin from passing into urine. Creatinine is a waste product that the kidneys filter at a steady rate. Comparing albumin to creatinine in a 24-hour urine collection accounts for how concentrated the urine is, giving a clearer picture of protein loss.
Why a 24-Hour Collection
A 24-hour urine collection gathers all urine produced over a full day, which can give a more complete estimate of albumin excretion than a single spot sample. Your care team will give you specific instructions on how to collect and store the sample.
How the Test Is Done
You collect all urine over a 24-hour period in a provided container, following your clinician's instructions about timing and storage. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. Be careful to avoid missing any collection, since incomplete collection can affect results.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a ratio of albumin to creatinine. Higher ratios can suggest protein leaking through the kidneys, which may indicate kidney damage. Your clinician will interpret the result alongside your medical history, other kidney tests, and your overall health. Reference ranges vary by laboratory.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An increased urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio can be an early sign of kidney disease, often before other symptoms appear. It is commonly monitored in people with diabetes or high blood pressure. Persistent elevations may warrant further evaluation and management to help protect kidney function.
Short name
Urine Albumin/Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
Does a high result always mean kidney disease?
Do I need to change my diet or medications before this test?
How is a 24-hour urine collection different from a spot urine test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy