Albumin, Random Urine with Creatinine Test
This test measures albumin and creatinine concentrations in a random urine sample and calculates the albumin-creatinine ratio, or ACR. The ratio is a marker associated with albuminuria, a sign of kidney damage.
About this test
Albumin is a protein that a healthy kidney generally keeps out of urine. When measured together with creatinine in a random, or spot, urine sample, the two values are used to calculate the albumin-creatinine ratio, which Quest describes as a way to detect albuminuria.
Quest describes this ratio as useful in assessing kidney damage, especially at an early stage, and in informing the management and prognosis of chronic kidney disease. It can also confirm a positive reagent strip urinalysis result, and the severity of albuminuria may factor into staging and prognosis of chronic kidney disease.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports three values: urine albumin, urine creatinine, and the albumin-creatinine ratio calculated from them. Quest lists several factors that can affect the ratio, including menstrual blood contamination, urinary tract infections, exercise, and posture, which is part of why a single result is read in context and sometimes repeated.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures albumin and creatinine concentrations in a random urine sample and calculates the albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR), used to detect albuminuria.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a random, or spot, urine sample, preferably collected in the early morning.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
What can affect the albumin-creatinine ratio?
Quest lists menstrual blood contamination, urinary tract infections, exercise, and posture as factors that can affect the ratio, which is why repeat early-morning testing is sometimes recommended.
Can this test confirm other kidney test results?
Quest describes it as able to confirm a positive reagent strip urinalysis result.