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Microalbumin12hurmrate

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures small amounts of protein (albumin) in your urine collected over 12 hours to detect early kidney damage.

Quick summary

{"Measures tiny amounts of protein (albumin) in your urine","Helps detect kidney damage early, especially in diabetes patients","Requires collecting all urine over a 12-hour period","Results are reported as micrograms per minute (μg/min) or mg/24hr","Normal results indicate healthy kidney function"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43607-1
Short code
MAU12
Synonyms
Microalbumin 12h Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Clean, labeled 24-hour urine collection container with preservative or sterile specimen cup for aliquot
Units
not specified
Ref low
0
Ref high
15
Critical range
1.5 not specified – 300 not specified
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
detection-limit-mg-l
CPT
82043
SNOMED
313295005
Specimen volume
10-100 mL aliquot from complete 12-hour collection
Stability
Refrigerated: 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days; Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The microalbumin in 12-hour urine test measures very small amounts of a protein called albumin in your urine. Albumin is normally found in the blood and helps transport substances throughout your body. Healthy kidneys filter waste from your blood while keeping important proteins like albumin in your bloodstream. When kidneys are damaged, even slightly, small amounts of albumin can leak into the urine. This test is designed to detect these tiny amounts of protein that standard urine tests might miss.

How is the sample collected?

You will collect all urine produced over a 12-hour period. Typically, you will start by urinating at a specific time (often in the morning) and not collect that first sample. After that, every time you urinate during the next 12 hours, you will collect the urine in a special container provided by your healthcare provider. At the end of 12 hours, you will urinate one final time and add that to the collection. The container should be kept refrigerated or in a cool place during the collection period. It is important to collect all urine during the 12-hour period for accurate results.

Why is this test ordered?

This test is most commonly ordered for people with diabetes to check for early kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy). It is also used for patients with high blood pressure, family history of kidney disease, or other conditions that may affect kidney function. Detecting small amounts of albumin in the urine early allows doctors to start treatments that can slow or prevent further kidney damage.

Reference range

0-15 mg/12 hrnot specified

Specimen: urine

Timed 12-hour urine collection required; avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to and during collection. No fasting needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is usually required for this test. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. It is important to drink normal amounts of fluids during the collection period unless otherwise directed.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported as micrograms per minute (μg/min) or milligrams per 24 hours (mg/24hr). Normal results usually show less than 20 μg/min or less than 30 mg/24hr of albumin. Higher levels indicate microalbuminuria, which means early kidney damage. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your overall health and medical history.
Can exercise affect the results?
Yes, strenuous exercise can temporarily increase albumin in urine. It is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise during the 12-hour collection period. Also, inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can affect results.
How often should this test be done?
For patients with diabetes, this test is typically done once a year as part of regular monitoring. Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need this test based on your individual condition and risk factors.
Is this test painful?
No, this test is not painful. It simply requires collecting urine as you normally would over a 12-hour period. The only discomfort might be the need to urinate into a container instead of the toilet.
  1. 1
    National Kidney Foundation - MicroalbuminuriaSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Microalbuminuria TestSource
  3. 3
    MedlinePlus - Urine AlbuminSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy