Urine Albumin and Albumin to Creatinine Ratio

Albumin is a protein normally found in the blood; ordinarily, the kidneys prevent most albumin from entering the urine.

A urine albumin test checks the albumin levels in the urine because abnormal amounts of this protein can be a sign of kidney problems. Several methods exist for measuring urine albumin, including a urine dipstick, a one-time urine sample that compares the ratio of albumin to creatinine, and a 24-hour urine collection.

Urine albumin tests are often used for screening and diagnosis of kidney disease. They can also help track the progression of disease and how well the kidneys respond to treatment.