Microalbumin Urine Test
Microalbumin Urine Test is a laboratory test you can order directly. A microalbumin urine test measures small amounts of albumin, a protein normally kept in the blood, that may leak into urine. It is most often ordered to check kidney health in people with diabetes or high blood pressure, or to assess risk of kidney and heart problems.
- Sample type
- urine
- Category
- Liver
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $118
- Referral
- Not required
A microalbumin urine test measures small amounts of albumin, a protein normally kept in the blood, that may leak into urine. It is most often ordered to check kidney health in people with diabetes or high blood pressure, or to assess risk of kidney and heart problems.
What it measures
- Albumin — A protein that should stay mostly in the blood; small amounts in urine can signal early kidney changes.
- Creatinine — A waste product used to adjust albumin levels for urine concentration.
- Albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) — The main result, comparing albumin to creatinine in a single sample.
- Urine albumin concentration — The raw amount of albumin in the sample, reported in milligrams per liter.
Who it is for
It is usually ordered by a primary care clinician, diabetes specialist, or kidney specialist for adults with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other kidney risk factors. It may also be used to monitor people already known to have kidney changes.
Preparation
No fasting is needed. A first-morning urine sample is often preferred, and your clinician may ask you to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy protein meals before the test.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as a ratio, such as milligrams of albumin per gram of creatinine, and may be labeled normal, moderately increased, or severely increased. A single abnormal result is often repeated to confirm it. Only a clinician can interpret your results in context; this is general information, not medical advice.
How to order this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the microalbumin urine test is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to collect urine for 24 hours?
Often no. A single urine sample, usually first thing in the morning, is commonly used. Sometimes a 24-hour collection is requested.
What does 'microalbumin' mean?
It means albumin is present in amounts too small for a standard urine dipstick to detect, but still above the normal range.
Can exercise or illness affect the result?
Yes. Strenuous exercise, fever, urinary infection, and high blood sugar can raise urine albumin temporarily, so testing may be repeated.
How often should this test be done?
For people with diabetes or high blood pressure, it is often checked once a year, but your clinician will decide the right schedule for you.