Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (Serum)
This test compares the levels of albumin (a protein) and creatinine (a waste product from muscles) in your blood. It helps assess kidney function and protein loss in urine, often used to detect early kidney disease or conditions like nephrotic syndrome.
["Measures kidney health and protein loss by evaluating blood protein and waste product levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13064-1
- Short code
- PA IgA Bld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- PA IgA Bld-aCnc
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or unexplained weight gain. It’s also used in routine check-ups for people at higher risk of kidney problems, such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re being tested for kidney function, you may be asked to collect a urine sample first, but this isn’t always required for this specific test.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and sent to a lab, where albumin and creatinine levels are measured. The ratio helps determine how well your kidneys are filtering waste and retaining proteins.
What the Results Mean
A higher ratio may indicate kidney disease or protein loss in urine, while a lower ratio could suggest malnutrition or liver disease. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This ratio is particularly useful for detecting early kidney damage or proteinuria (protein in urine) that might not be caught by other tests alone. It’s often used alongside other kidney function tests to provide a clearer picture of your health.
Short name
Albumin:Creatinine Ratio
Frequently asked questions
Why might my healthcare provider ask for this test?
What does a high or low ratio mean?
Do I need to fast 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy