Microalbuminurteststrmcnc
A urine test that detects small amounts of protein (albumin) in the urine, used to assess kidney function.
{"Measures tiny amounts of protein in urine","Helps detect early kidney damage","Important for diabetes and hypertension monitoring","Simple urine test using test strip","Results guide treatment decisions"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11218-5
- Short code
- MAU
- Synonyms
- Microalbumin Ur Test Str-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Clean, dry plastic urine container (sterile not required)
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Critical range
- 1.5 not specified – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- detection-limit-mg-l-test-strip
- CPT
- 82043
- SNOMED
- 313295008
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL minimum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Do not freeze
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The urine microalbumin test measures very small amounts of a protein called albumin in your urine. Albumin is normally found in the blood and helps the body function properly. When your kidneys are healthy, they prevent albumin from leaking into urine. This test can detect even tiny amounts of albumin that regular urine tests might miss.
Why is it important?
This test is crucial because it can identify kidney damage at an early stage, often before more serious symptoms appear. Early detection allows for timely treatment that can slow or prevent further kidney damage. It is especially important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.
How is the test performed?
The test uses a special strip (dipstick) that changes color when it contacts urine containing albumin. You will be asked to provide a urine sample, usually collected in a sterile container. The strip is dipped into the sample, and the color change is compared to a chart to determine the amount of albumin present. The test is quick, painless, and can often be done in your doctor's office.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported as a ratio (for example, milligrams of albumin per gram of creatinine). Normal results usually show less than 30 mg/g. Results between 30-300 mg/g indicate microalbuminuria (early kidney damage), while results above 300 mg/g suggest more significant kidney problems. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your overall health and medical history.
Reference range
0-20 mg/Lnot specified
No fasting required. Prefer first-morning void; avoid strenuous exercise for 24 h prior.
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 the test at home?
What can cause false positives?
How often should I have this test?
Is the test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy