Microalbumin, Urine 24 Hrs

Microalbumin Urine 24H Overview

Albumin is a protein component that is important for cell repairing and system functions. Normally, the kidneys filter the blood and help remove the waste products through urine and retain the important components especially proteins such as albumin. When there is an impairment in kidney functions, albumin escape the blood and are excreted in the urine. Microalbumin test is useful in such cases to test the albumin levels in the urine. It is often measured along with creatinine levels to assess the kidney status. 

Proteins like albumin are necessary for the development and repair of tissues. The blood frequently contains it. The function of the kidneys is to filter waste from the blood and replenish essential minerals and proteins for the body, particularly albumin. Kidneys also control the body's water balance. Albumin is not replenished and leaks into the urine when the kidneys are damaged or dysfunctional.

The microalbumin urine 24H is a diagnostic test that measures the amount of albumin, a protein, excreted in urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension.

What is the Microalbumin Urine 24H test?

The little amount of albumin found in your urine can be measured with a Microalbumin Urine 24H test. Albuminuria implies the existence of albumin in the urine. Urine with a high level of albumin may be a symptom of renal injury. Therefore, this examination could aid in the diagnosis of kidney injury or dysfunction. Additionally, it aids in determining whether kidney damage from diabetes has occurred.

Why is the Microalbumin Urine 24H test done?

The purpose of the test is to evaluate how efficiently the kidneys are working. It can be used in the following ways -

1. To check the kidneys' efficiency in people with type 1 diabetes; it is usually recommended to be repeated a few years after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
2. To check the kidneys' efficiency in people with type 2 diabetes; it is usually performed once a year in those with type 2 diabetes.
3. To detect kidney function In people who have high blood pressure, which may harm the kidneys over time.

Written by: Dr.Shibani R, Medical Writer, Medical Affairs