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Alpha-1-Microglobulin, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration

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

Measures alpha-1-microglobulin collected over 24 hours to help assess kidney tubular protein handling and monitor certain kidney conditions.

Quick summary

["This 24-hour urine test can help detect increased urinary protein loss caused by impaired kidney tubule function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99076-2
Short code
A1 Microglob 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
A1 Microglob 24h Ur-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-1-microglobulin is a small protein that is normally filtered by the kidneys and then reabsorbed by the kidney tubules. This test measures the amount present in urine collected over 24 hours.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate kidney tubule function, especially if you have diabetes, hypertension, an autoimmune condition, or a history of kidney disease. It may also be used to monitor certain conditions that can cause the kidneys to leak small amounts of protein into the urine.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a container provided by the laboratory or your clinician. The urine volume is measured, and a laboratory sample is analyzed to determine the amount of alpha-1-microglobulin.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare team, including the exact start time, end time, and container. Tell your clinician if you have an illness, infection, fever, vomiting, or diarrhea during the collection period because these can affect the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Alpha-1-Microglobulin

Frequently asked questions

Does this test detect kidney damage?
It can help identify changes in kidney tubule function, particularly when small proteins are not being reabsorbed normally. It is usually interpreted with other kidney tests rather than used alone to diagnose a specific condition.
What happens if I miss part of the 24-hour urine collection?
An incomplete collection can make the result inaccurate or unusable. Contact the laboratory or your clinician for instructions on whether the collection needs to be repeated.
Is alpha-1-microglobulin the same as microalbumin?
No. They are different small proteins. Alpha-1-microglobulin primarily reflects tubular protein handling, while urine microalbumin is commonly used to assess early diabetic kidney injury.
  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