Urine For Albumin Creatinine Ratio Test

The albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) helps identify kidney disease, a complication that arises with diabetes. This test has the two components tested. Albumin is a protein that is present in high concentrations in the blood. Virtually no albumin is present in the urine when the kidneys are functioning normally. Albumin may be detected even in the very early stages of kidney disease, which makes it a very reliable test. Creatinine is normally released into urine at a constant rate and its level in the urine is an indication of the urine concentration. This allows creatinine to be measure correctly in this ACR test.

Since this is not a blood test but a test on the urine sample of the test taker, it will not require the general preparation like fasting. The person appearing for the test is permitted to eat anything without any restriction. However, if the test taker is on any other medication, or has any underlying medical problems or any relevant history, it is advisable for the person to inform his doctor or healthcare provider before the test. The doctor or concerned person will then decide the further course of action.

The urine albumin/ creatine ratio (ACR) is used to screen people with chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, i.e. hypertension which puts these people at an increased risk of developing kidney disease. By doing this test, an individual in the very early stages of kidney disease can be identified. This is useful for the doctor or healthcare provider to adjust treatment accordingly. Controlling diabetes and hypertension by maintaining tight glycemic control and reducing blood pressure helps in delaying or preventing the progression of kidney disease.

The procedure is carried out in a testing centre, clinic or a hospital. The test taker is instructed to collect a sample of their urine in a vial or disposable container. After this, the person will have to return it to the test administrator. The container will be marked accordingly and sent to the testing centre. There are three types of tests: a randomly timed test where you can get it done at anytime. Others include the 24-hour test where the person has to collect the urine for a 24 hour period and return the containers, and the timed test which may be done in the morning or after a four-hour period of not urinating.