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Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (Serum)

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

This test measures the ratio of albumin (a protein) to creatinine (a waste product) in your blood to help assess kidney function and protein loss.

Quick summary

["Helps detect kidney issues and protein loss in urine by comparing protein and waste levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63564-9
Short code
G lambl+C par+E hist/dis Ag Stl
Synonyms
G lambl+C par+E hist/dis Ag Stl
Category
coagulation
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

What Is Albumin to Creatinine Ratio Used For?

This ratio is often used to screen for conditions like **proteinuria** (excess protein in urine) or **kidney disease**, especially when urine protein tests are inconclusive. It can also help monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression or response to treatment without requiring a 24-hour urine collection.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to measure albumin and creatinine levels, then their ratio is calculated.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, fatigue, or if you have a history of kidney problems, diabetes, or high blood pressure. It’s also used in certain screening or monitoring protocols for kidney health.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are interpreted as a ratio (e.g., lower ratios may indicate kidney issues or protein loss, while higher ratios may suggest dehydration or other conditions). Your doctor will compare it to your clinical picture and other test results for diagnosis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Albumin to Creatinine Ratio

Short name

Albumin:Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test important for kidney health?
This ratio provides a quick, non-invasive way to assess kidney function and detect early signs of protein loss in urine, which can signal kidney damage or disease. Unlike urine protein tests alone, it avoids the need for a 24-hour urine collection, making it easier for routine monitoring.
How does this test differ from a urine protein test?
Unlike urine protein tests (e.g., dipstick or timed urine collections), this blood-based ratio measures protein loss relative to kidney function, offering a more dynamic snapshot of kidney health without requiring timed urine samples.
Can this test replace other kidney function tests?
No, this test is one tool among many. It’s often used alongside other tests like blood creatinine levels, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), or urine tests to provide a full picture of kidney function and disease risk.
  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