Name of the Procedure:

Albumin; urine (eg, microalbumin), quantitative

Summary

This test measures the amount of the protein albumin in your urine. Albumin is typically found in the blood, and its presence in urine can be an early sign of kidney disease.

Purpose

The test is used to diagnose and monitor kidney function. It helps in detecting early signs of kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or high blood pressure. The goal is to catch kidney issues early so that treatment can be initiated promptly to prevent further damage.

Indications

• Persistent protein in urine
• Diabetes
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Symptoms of kidney dysfunction, such as swelling (edema), fatigue, or changes in urination

Preparation

• Collect a urine sample as instructed by your healthcare provider. This may involve a single random sample or a 24-hour collection.
• Follow your doctor's advice on medication adjustments before the test.
• No specific fasting required, but follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

Procedure Description

1. Urine Collection: The patient provides a urine sample, which can be collected at any time. Sometimes a 24-hour urine collection is required.
   • For a random sample: Clean the genital area and collect midstream urine in a sterile container.
   • For a 24-hour collection: All urine passed in a 24-hour period is collected and stored in a special container kept in a cool place.
2. Laboratory Analysis: The sample is sent to a lab where the amount of albumin is measured accurately.

Duration

A few minutes for a random urine sample collection; a full day for 24-hour urine collection. The lab analysis may take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the laboratory.

Setting

The urine sample can be collected at home, in a physician's office, or at a clinic. The analysis is performed in a clinical laboratory.

Personnel

• Random Sample: The patient or a medical assistant.
• 24-hour Collection: The patient.
• Analysis: Laboratory technicians and pathologists.

Risks and Complications

• No significant risks are associated with urine sample collection.
• Extremely rare chance of contamination if the sample is not collected properly.

Benefits

• Early detection of kidney damage.
• Effective monitoring of treatment in diabetic and hypertensive patients.
• Helps prevent progression of kidney disease if managed well.

Recovery

• No recovery time needed as this is a non-invasive urine test.
• Resume normal activities immediately after sample collection.

Alternatives

• Dipstick Urine Test: Less accurate for quantitative analysis but can give quick results.

• Blood Test for Kidney Function: Measures other aspects of kidney function, but not directly comparable to urine albumin testing.

  Patient Experience

• Quick, simple, and non-invasive.
• For 24-hour collection, may find collection process cumbersome.
• Minimal discomfort; no pain involved.
• Discuss results with your healthcare provider in a follow-up appointment.