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Alpha-1-Microglobulin, Urine — Substance Concentration

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

Measures alpha-1-microglobulin in urine, a protein that can help assess kidney tubule function, especially when interpreted with other urine tests.

Quick summary

["Elevated urine alpha-1-microglobulin may indicate kidney tubule damage or inflammation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77163-4
Short code
A1 Microglob Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
A1 Microglob Ur-sCnc
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?

This test measures the amount of alpha-1-microglobulin in a urine sample. This small protein is filtered by the kidneys and normally handled by the kidney tubules, which reabsorb and process filtered proteins.

Why might I need this test?

Urine alpha-1-microglobulin may be used to evaluate kidney tubule function. It can be helpful when monitoring conditions that may injure the tubules, such as diabetes, hypertension, or use of certain medicines, and when interpreting other signs of kidney damage.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in a laboratory to determine the concentration of alpha-1-microglobulin. Results are often evaluated along with urine creatinine, urine protein, and kidney function tests because urine concentration and other factors can affect the measurement.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions for collecting urine, which may be a first-morning or single-void sample. Standard urine collection containers are usually used; your clinician will tell you if any special timing, refrigeration, or additional collection is required. Do not stop medicines without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine alpha-1-microglobulin

Frequently asked questions

What does alpha-1-microglobulin measure?
It measures the amount of this small protein in urine. The kidneys normally filter and reabsorb it through their tubules.
What can a high urine alpha-1-microglobulin result mean?
It may indicate that the kidney tubules are not reabsorbing the protein normally, as can occur with tubule injury, inflammation, diabetes, or certain medicines. Other urine and blood test results are needed to determine the cause.
Is a urine alpha-1-microglobulin test the same as a urine protein test?
No. It measures one specific protein and can help evaluate kidney tubules, while a standard urine protein test measures overall protein loss. These tests may be interpreted together.
  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