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24-Hour Urinary Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how much albumin (a protein) appears in your urine over 24 hours, compared to a measure of kidney function. It helps assess kidney damage or early kidney disease (kidney dysfunction).

Quick summary

["Helps detect kidney problems early by tracking protein loss in urine."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26883-9
Short code
Deprecated AB-Gp 24H Ur-sRate
Synonyms
Deprecated AB-Gp 24H Ur-sRate
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

Why This Test Matters for Kidney Health

Albumin is normally kept in your bloodstream, but if your kidneys are damaged, small amounts can leak into urine. This test helps doctors check for early signs of kidney issues, such as diabetic kidney disease or other forms of kidney damage.

How the Test Works

A small urine sample is collected over 24 hours. The sample is tested to measure albumin levels relative to creatinine (a waste product from muscle breakdown), which helps standardize the result. This ratio helps identify kidney problems that might not show up in simpler urine tests.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to collect all urine for 24 hours, including during sleep. Drink enough fluids to produce urine consistently, but avoid excessive alcohol or certain medications that could affect results.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results are typically reported as a ratio (e.g., mg/mg or g/g). Higher than expected ratios may indicate kidney damage or disease. Your doctor will discuss results with you and may recommend further tests or adjustments to your treatment plan.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin in urine rate

Frequently asked questions

What causes false high or low results?
False high results may occur if you have infections, fever, or certain medications. False low results can happen if you don’t collect enough urine or if your kidney function is very low. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for accurate results.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Moderate alcohol use is usually fine, but avoid heavy drinking as it may affect kidney function and urine composition. Check with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test periodically if you have risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney problems. Follow-up timing depends on your individual health needs.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy