What it measures
The urine albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR) compares the amount of albumin, a blood protein, with creatinine in a urine sample. Healthy kidneys let very little albumin through, so the ratio is used to spot early kidney damage.
Why people test it
- Checked regularly in people with diabetes or high blood pressure, to look for early kidney changes.
- Used with eGFR, a blood test, to check for and stage chronic kidney disease.
- Monitored in people with known kidney disease.
Typical range
Ranges vary between labs, with the method used, age and sex, and your report shows the lab's own range. One NHS lab gives below 3.0 mg/mmol as its reference range. Source: North Bristol NHS Trust, Severn Pathology: albumin/creatinine ratio.
Finger-prick or vein?
A urine sample, not blood. Some tests that include it pair the urine with a blood sample for kidney results such as creatinine and eGFR.
Very hard exercise, a urine infection or a fever can raise the result for a short time.