Microalbumin Random Test

Urinary microalbumin refers to urinary albumin loss that is greater than normal but which remains below the threshold of detection by the urinalysis dipstick test (used for detecting the presence of urinary protein). The more sensitive tests required to detect microalbuminuria are usually performed in the laboratory. Microalbuminurea is a sensitive marker of nephropathy. The test is used to screen for renal diseases in people with diabetes mellitus and hyper tension. Urinary tract infections, fever, post streptococcal glomerulonephritis, higher protein diet may result in microalbuminurea.

Patient should avoid strenuous physical activity before collection of urine as these activities may cause small amounts of blood to appear in the urine. Avoid high protein diet before the test.

Take advice from your doctor. Certain medications can influence the level of protein in your urine, so doctor may ask you to stop taking it or to limit the dose before the test. Get yourself well hydrated before the test .This makes giving the urine samples easier and prevents dehydration. Women during menstruation should wear a fresh tampon/sanitary napkin before the test in order to minimize contamination of the sample.

Up to 50 percent of type 1 diabetic may develop nephropathy and the detection of microalbuminuria has been shown to signal an eventual progression to diabetic nephropathy. 30-300 mg of protein in urine is known as microalbuminurea and indicates early kidney disease. More than 300 mg is macroalbuminurea and indicates more advanced kidney failure.

With the benefit of early warning provided by the detection of microalbuminuria, there is some evidence that meticulous control of diabetes and hypertension, and the use of ACE inhibitors, delays the progress of nephropathy. Regular screening will help in avoiding permanent kidney failure and facilitates the use of the results to motivate the patient to lifestyle changes and increased compliance.

Collect random urine sample in a sterile cup (about 10ml). Use of preservatives should be avoided whenever possible in urine tests as it may affect biochemical test results. Many urinary constituents get altered easily so the samples should be tested within an hour of collection or refrigeration.

Samples may be stored at optimum temperature of 36–46°F (2–8°C) for up to 24 hours for chemical urinalysis test. If possible the microscopic examination should be performed within 3-4 hours of collection. Results are expressed on a random sample as an albumin cretanin ratio.