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Albumin in urine serves as a crucial indicator of kidney health and may reveal underlying conditions. Monitoring albumin levels aids in early diagnosis and supports effective treatment.
Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and is one of the main proteins found in blood serum. It plays several vital roles in the body, such as maintaining fluid balance, transporting essential nutrients, and supporting tissue repair.
While albumin typically remains in the bloodstream, small amounts can occasionally enter the urine.
When albumin appears in higher-than-normal amounts in urine, it may signal kidney issues. Kidneys are responsible for filtering waste while retaining essential substances like proteins. When they are damaged, proteins like albumin can leak into urine, a condition known as albuminuria.
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Albumin testing in urine is recommended when there’s a potential risk or concern for kidney health. This test is a valuable tool in monitoring and diagnosing kidney-related conditions, especially in patients with chronic illnesses. It’s typically ordered in the following cases:
Albumin levels can be assessed both through urine and blood tests. While blood tests are often used to check albumin levels in general, urine tests are specifically helpful in assessing kidney health and identifying early signs of kidney damage.
Albumin levels in urine are typically measured through a urinalysis. This can be either a one-time spot test or a 24-hour urine collection, depending on what the healthcare provider needs to assess.
There are several test methods to measure albumin in urine. One common method is the turbidimetric test, which uses light to detect the concentration of albumin in the urine sample. In some cases, a urine dipstick test may also be used for a quick initial screening.
Preparing for the Test
To ensure the accuracy of albumin testing in urine, some preparations may be needed:
Normal albumin levels in urine are generally low, as the kidneys are usually effective at retaining proteins.
For adults, the typical reference range is:
Note: The units of measurement and the normal ranges can differ depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used.
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High levels of albumin in urine, known as albuminuria, often indicate that the kidneys are not filtering properly. This can be a sign of kidney damage or stress on the kidneys. Various factors and conditions can cause elevated albumin levels in urine, such as:
If albumin levels are found to be high, lifestyle changes and treatment plans can help manage and reduce these levels. Here are some tips to maintain kidney health and prevent albumin leakage:
If albumin levels in urine are elevated or there’s a concern about kidney health, it’s best to consult a medical professional who specializes in kidney function and related health issues. The following healthcare providers can assist in diagnosing and managing elevated albumin levels in urine:
This article was written by doctors from the Docus Medical Research team and reviewed by leading nephrology experts. We relied on academic studies, medical research, and publications from credible sources to ensure the information provided is accurate and trustworthy.
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