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

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

This test measures the amount of albumin (a protein) and creatinine (a waste product from muscles) in your urine over 24 hours. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood and detecting early signs of kidney damage.

Quick summary

["This test helps monitor kidney function and kidney disease risk by comparing protein loss to muscle waste in urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74918-4
Short code
FA 24h Stl-mCnt
Synonyms
FA 24h Stl-mCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or blood in urine. It’s also used in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney problems to check for early kidney damage.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll collect all urine for 24 hours in a container. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid foods high in salt or protein that might affect results.

How the Test Works

Your urine sample is tested for albumin and creatinine levels. The ratio helps identify if your kidneys are losing protein, which can indicate kidney disease.

Possible Results and What They Mean

Higher ratios may signal kidney damage or disease, especially in people with diabetes or high blood pressure. Lower ratios may mean normal kidney function, but results should always be reviewed by your doctor.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated albumin-to-creatinine ratios are a key marker for early kidney damage, including diabetic nephropathy or glomerulonephritis. It’s a non-invasive way to monitor kidney function, especially in high-risk groups, and can guide treatment decisions like blood pressure or diabetes management.

Short name

24h Urinary Albumin/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What causes false high or low results?
False high results can occur if you have a urinary tract infection, are dehydrated, or eat high-protein foods. False low results may happen if you’re not collecting urine correctly or have kidney disease that’s not yet detected.
Does diet affect this test?
Yes, foods high in salt, protein, or caffeine can temporarily change urine protein levels. Avoiding these for a few days before testing helps get more accurate results.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often based on your health condition. For people with diabetes or kidney risk factors, it may be done yearly or more frequently as needed.
  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