Microalbumin, Spot Urine
Microalbumin, Spot Urine
A very small amount of albumin in your urine is measured using this test. Albumin is a protein that is necessary for tissue growth and repair. In cases where your kidneys aren't functioning properly, albumin may leak into your urine. Microalbumin, spot urine test can be used to detect kidney damage caused due to conditions such as diabetes.
Healthcare professionals use this test to look for changes in albumin levels that indicate complications from diabetes or other conditions because such small amounts of albumin may not show up during routine urine testing.
In this test, a urine sample is taken at any time of the day. This sample will usually be collected at a medical lab or the office of your healthcare provider.
Thus, getting this test done is recommended for screening and diagnosis of kidney disease. Kidney disease may be successfully treated if it is discovered early
Symptoms of kidney damage
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Sleep problems
Urinating more or less
Swelling of feet and ankles
Dry, itchy skin
High blood pressure
Who should get tested?
A microalbumin, spot urine test is recommended for adults who have one or more of the following risk factors for kidney disease:
Having high blood pressure
Having a family history of chronic kidney disease
Being obese
Smoking cigarettes
Having cardiovascular disease
Belonging to a particular race or ethnicity
Preparation for test
Ensure your doctor is aware about what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Interpretation of results
The units of measurement for the results are Milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL)
|
Protein |
Normal range in urine |
|
Albumin |
< 30 mg/dL |
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Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
·      You might need to repeat the test if your results indicate a very small amount of albumin in order to confirm the results.
·      Low levels of albumin may indicate the beginning of kidney disease.
·      You may be at a higher risk of developing heart disease if microalbumin is detected in your urine.
    ·   Elevated levels of microalbumin may also be caused due to an acid-base imbalance in your blood, blood in your urine and urinary tract infection
FAQs
How is the sample collected for a microalbumin, spot urine test?
A urine sample is used for this test. You will be given a sterile container by your healthcare provider to collect a urine sample.
Midstream urine collection is the proper technique for taking a urine sample. The first few urine drops should be discarded because they could contain microorganisms that are present on the genital surface. It is advised that you clean the area around your genitalia before taking a urine sample
What are the risks involved in a microalbumin, spot urine test sample collection?
Urine sample collection for microalbumin, spot urine test does not pose any risks
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of a microalbumin, spot urine test?
The result of a microalbumin, spot urine test is usually available within 36 hours, although it could take longer at times
What factors can affect the microalbumin, spot urine test results?
Your results may appear higher than they actually are due to vigorous exercise. Your test results may also be impacted by specific medications, such as oxytetracycline
What does high level of urinary microalbumin test mean?
Albumin levels between 30 and 300 mg/dL is indicative of a condition known as microalbuminuria. Higher albumin levels may be caused due to kidney disease or injury. A person's risk of developing heart disease may also increase if albumin is consistently detected in their urine
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