24-Hour Urinary Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) or Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR) via Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of albumin, a protein, in your urine over 24 hours. It helps assess whether your kidneys are allowing too much protein to pass into your urine, which can indicate kidney damage or disease.
["This test helps check for early kidney problems by measuring protein loss in urine over a full day."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15188-6
- Short code
- Kappa LC 24h Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Kappa LC 24h Ur-mCnc
- 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
Kidneys normally filter waste and extra fluid from your blood. If they’re damaged, they may let proteins like albumin pass into your urine instead of keeping them in your blood. Measuring albumin in urine helps doctors spot early signs of kidney issues, such as diabetic nephropathy or other forms of kidney disease, before symptoms appear.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all your urine over 24 hours and send it to the lab. The lab then measures the amount of albumin in your urine sample using a specialized technique to determine its concentration relative to creatinine (a waste product from muscles).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to drink extra water the day before to help your kidneys produce more urine. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to collect urine in a clean container throughout the day.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll collect every drop of urine for 24 hours, including during sleep. Use a special container or bottle to store it, and refrigerate it if needed. Bring the full container to your doctor’s office or lab for testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Albumin in urine (24-hour urine test)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before the 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