Microalbumin4hurmcnc
A urine test that measures small amounts of protein (albumin) to detect early kidney damage.
{"Measures tiny amounts of protein in urine to check kidney health","Helps detect kidney damage early, especially in diabetes patients","Requires a 4-hour urine collection for accurate results","Results are reported as milligrams per hour (mg/hr)","Early detection allows for better treatment outcomes"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43605-5
- Short code
- MALB
- Synonyms
- Microalbumin 4h Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Clean, sterile urine collection container or timed urine collection container
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 30
- Critical range
- 1.5 not specified – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- detection-limit-mg-l
- CPT
- 82043
- SNOMED
- 260405003
- Specimen volume
- 10-20 mL from total 4-hour collection
- Stability
- Room temperature: 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 14 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The microalbumin 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. When your kidneys are healthy, they filter waste from your blood while keeping important proteins like albumin in your bloodstream. When kidneys are damaged, small amounts of albumin can leak into the urine—this is called microalbuminuria.
Why is this test important?
This test is crucial because it can detect kidney damage before you notice any symptoms. Early detection of kidney problems allows for early treatment, which can slow or prevent further kidney damage. This is especially important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.
How is the test done?
For a 4-hour urine collection, you will be asked to: 1) Empty your bladder completely at the start time and record the time, 2) Collect all urine you produce during the next 4 hours into the provided container, 3) Keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place, 4) Return the sample to the lab within the timeframe specified by your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the collection instructions carefully for accurate results.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported in milligrams per hour (mg/hr). Normal results usually show less than 20-30 mg/hr of albumin in the urine. Higher levels may indicate: Early kidney damage (microalbuminuria: 30-300 mg/hr), Moderate to severe kidney damage (clinical albuminuria: over 300 mg/hr). Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your overall health, medical history, and other test results.
Are there any risks?
This test involves only normal urine collection, so there are no significant physical risks. However, certain factors can affect results including: Urinary tract infections, strenuous exercise, blood in the urine, some medications, and dehydration. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking and any conditions that might affect your test results.
Reference range
0-30 mg/Lnot specified
Timed 4-hour urine collection (empty bladder at start, collect all urine for 4 hours). Avoid vigorous exercise 24 hours prior. No fasting required.
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?
Can I do normal activities during the 4-hour collection?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
How often should I have this test?
Is the test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy