Albumin Creatinine Ratio Reset

Albumin/Creatinine Ratio (ALB/CRE Ratio) 

The Albumin/Creatinine Ratio (ALB/CRE or ACR) is a urine test used to detect kidney damage by measuring the amount of albumin (a protein) relative to creatinine (a waste product) in the urine. It helps identify early kidney disease, especially in individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other risk factors. 

1. What Is the ALB/CRE Ratio? 

• Albumin: A protein that helps maintain blood volume; it should remain in the bloodstream and not leak into urine. 

• Creatinine: A waste product from normal muscle metabolism, excreted steadily in urine. 

• The ALB/CRE ratio normalizes albumin levels against urine concentration and is expressed in mg/g. 

2. Why Is the Test Done? 

• Detect early kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension. 

• Monitor kidney health over time in high-risk individuals. 

• Guide treatment and lifestyle changes to slow kidney disease progression. 

• Assess risk for cardiovascular disease and complications related to kidney function. 

3. Interpreting Results 

🔹 < 30 mg/g: Healthy kidney function. 

🔹 30–300 mg/g: Early signs of kidney disease; may require intervention. 

🔹 > 300 mg/g: Advanced kidney damage; urgent evaluation and treatment may be needed. 

4. What Can Affect ALB/CRE Ratio? 

• Dehydration or overhydration 

• Urinary tract infections or recent vigorous exercise 

• High-protein diet or fever 

• Blood sugar and blood pressure control 

5. How Is the Test Performed? 

• A clean-catch urine sample is collected. 

• The albumin and creatinine levels are measured and used to calculate the ratio. 

6. When to See a Doctor 

• Have a persistently high ALB/CRE ratio over multiple tests. 

• Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. 

• Experience swelling, changes in urination, or unexplained fatigue. 

🔹 Key Takeaways 

• The ALB/CRE Ratio is a sensitive marker for early kidney disease. 

• <30 mg/g is normal; higher values suggest increasing levels of kidney damage. 

• Monitoring and treatment can help protect kidney function and prevent complications.