Microalbumin, Random Urine with Creatinine

FAQ

1. What is a microalbumin urine test?

   Albumin is a protein that performs many important functions in the blood, including carrying various substances from one part of the body to another and preventing liquid from leaking out of the blood vessels. Normally, most albumin remains in your bloodstream unless there's damage to your kidneys—then it may also enter the urine.

   A microalbumin urine test is used to detect and quantify the presence of albumin in a sample of your urine, which can reflect kidney problems.

2. What does a microalbumin urine test look for?

   A microalbumin urine test looks for abnormalities in the amount of albumin in your urine sample. A higher than normal amount of this protein in your urine could signify kidney disease. Some symptoms of kidney disease may include:

   • Changes in urination frequency
   • Nausea or vomiting
   • Swelling of feet and ankles
   • Loss of appetite
   • Fatigue and weakness
   • Dry, itchy skin
   • Sleeping problems

   If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you could benefit from getting your urine microalbumin tested. Testing for microalbumin can also help monitor the progression of kidney disease and the effectiveness of a particular treatment.

3. What is the microalbumin: creatinine ratio?

   A microalbumin to creatinine ratio is a measurement of both albumin and creatinine in a single sample of urine. Creatinine is a by-product of normal muscle metabolism, and it's mostly excreted through urine. The total amount of creatinine you produce is relatively consistent, so a test that measures the ratio of albumin to creatinine can be used to estimate how much albumin may have been excreted over 24 hours without having to do a full 24-hour urine test.

4. How to do a microalbumin urine test?

   Microalbumin can be tested in a random urine sample. You will be asked to collect your urine in a special container to be analyzed in the lab. Speak to your doctor to better understand your results and determine if further testing or treatment is needed.

5. Do I need to visit a doctor?

   Nope. You don't need a doctor's visit to get a test with us.

6. How do I get my results?

   You'll get your results via email as soon as they are available. We will notify you via SMS as well. You can also see them at any time in the future right in your dashboard where you can easily share them with your professional and compare them side by side with future tests.

7. Does my lab prescription expire?

   We're the only lab that honors your lab order forever.