Skip to content

Microalbumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (MCR) in Urine

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

This test measures small amounts of albumin (a protein) in your urine compared to creatinine (a waste product from muscles) to help detect early kidney damage.

Quick summary

["Assesses kidney function and early signs of kidney disease with a simple urine test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
100883-8
Short code
MR Guided Kidney-L Bx
Synonyms
MR Guided Kidney-L Bx
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters for Kidney Health

Kidneys normally filter waste and excess proteins from your blood. When kidney damage begins, tiny amounts of albumin may leak into urine. This test helps identify early kidney problems before symptoms appear, such as swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine color.

How the Test Works

A small urine sample is collected, typically over a 24-hour period or a single morning sample. The lab measures albumin and creatinine levels. The ratio helps determine if albumin is present in amounts that might indicate kidney strain.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could affect results (e.g., high-protein diets). Drink plenty of water the day of the test to ensure a good urine sample.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results are compared to reference ranges for your age and gender. Elevated ratios may signal early kidney issues, prompting further testing like additional urine tests, blood pressure checks, or kidney function evaluations. Follow-up with your doctor to discuss next steps.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Microalbumin:Urine Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
A high microalbumin-to-creatinine ratio often signals **diabetic nephropathy** (kidney damage from diabetes), **hypertension-related kidney damage**, or other conditions like kidney inflammation. A low ratio usually means no significant kidney protein loss, but repeated testing is still important for monitoring long-term health.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, high-protein diets, certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs like ibuprofen), or dehydration can influence results. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments or timing the test around your usual meals to avoid interference.
How often should I get this test?
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend this test every 1–3 years to track kidney health. If you’re asymptomatic but at higher risk (e.g., family history of kidney disease), ask your doctor about scheduling regular checks.
  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