Serum/plasma substance concentration (qualitative) for albumin and creatinine ratio (e.g., albumin-to-creatinine ratio, ACR)
This test measures the ratio of albumin (a protein) and creatinine (a waste product from muscle breakdown) in your blood or urine to help assess kidney function and protein loss.
["Helps detect early kidney damage or protein loss in urine, often used alongside urine albumin testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23917-8
- Short code
- OF .60% NaCl NFr RBC
- Synonyms
- OF .60% NaCl NFr RBC
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 in Kidney Health
Kidneys normally filter waste like creatinine from blood, but if they’re damaged, creatinine builds up. Albumin, a protein made by your liver, should stay in the bloodstream. If it appears in urine, it may signal kidney problems or other conditions like diabetes. This test helps check for both by comparing these two measures together.
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or high blood pressure, or if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. It’s also sometimes used to monitor kidney function after treatment for conditions like heart failure or kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely provide a urine sample (sometimes called a spot urine test) in the morning. No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous activity or certain medications that might affect urine composition for a few days before testing.
What the Results Mean
A qualitative result means your doctor will interpret it based on your overall health and symptoms. High albumin in urine (relative to creatinine) may indicate kidney problems, while normal results suggest healthy filtering. Your doctor will discuss findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why is this test qualitative (not a number)?
Does this test replace other kidney tests like blood creatinine?
Can I eat or drink anything before this 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy