Muscle deterioration, also known as muscle atrophy or muscle wasting, is the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. It is caused by prolonged inactivity, malnutrition, chronic diseases like cancer or kidney failure, neurological disorders, and aging-related sarcopenia. The Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine test is the most important test for assessing muscle deterioration because it measures creatinine levels, a direct byproduct of muscle metabolism that decreases as muscle mass declines.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Muscle deterioration is caused by prolonged immobility, inadequate protein intake, chronic diseases such as cancer or chronic kidney disease, neurological disorders like muscular dystrophy or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), severe infections, and age-related sarcopenia. When muscles are not used regularly or when the body lacks sufficient nutrients, muscle protein breaks down faster than it can be rebuilt. Hormonal imbalances, particularly low testosterone or growth hormone levels, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis also accelerate muscle loss by disrupting normal muscle metabolism.
The Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine test is the most important test for muscle deterioration because it measures creatinine levels, which directly reflect muscle mass and metabolic activity. Creatinine is produced during muscle metabolism, so lower than normal creatinine levels in urine indicate reduced muscle mass and severe muscle wasting. This test allows healthcare providers to quantify the extent of muscle loss and track changes over time, making it essential for monitoring disease progression or improvement with treatment interventions.
You should get tested if you notice unexplained muscle weakness, difficulty performing daily activities like climbing stairs or lifting objects, visible reduction in muscle size, unintentional weight loss, or chronic fatigue that limits physical function. Testing is especially important if you have been bedridden for extended periods, have a chronic illness like kidney disease or cancer, are experiencing rapid aging-related muscle loss, or notice that your muscles appear smaller despite maintaining your usual diet and activity level.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your albumin-to-creatinine ratio is slightly elevated, indicating early signs of kidney stress or microalbuminuria. This is common in people with diabetes and represents an early warning that your kidneys are starting to leak small amounts of protein. The good news is that catching it at this stage means you can take action to protect your kidneys and potentially reverse the damage.
Recommended actions
Work closely with your doctor to keep blood sugar levels in target range consistently
Monitor and control blood pressure, aiming for below 130/80 mmHg
Reduce salt intake and follow a kidney-friendly diet moderate in protein
Retest in 3 months to monitor trends and assess if interventions are working
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
3303 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide
Quick questions:
