URINE ALBUMIN CREATININE RATIO

The UACR test compares the amount of albumin against creatinine levels in urine. Albumin is a special kind of protein that must remain in circulation within the blood. High levels of it in urine typically indicate severe damage to the kidneys, where some of the bloodstream’s protein can escape through the filters of the kidneys and enter the urine. This procedure is imperative in determining the diagnosis and prognosis of kidney disease processes. 

The UACR procedure is relatively accessible and simple: a health care provider collects a urine specimen and sends it to the nearest laboratory. The laboratory then assesses the specimen, determining the amount of albumin and creatinine present in the sample. They then calculate the UACR ratio. 

The UACR is the measurement of the levels of albumin and creatinine in your urine. This ratio is beneficial to the healthcare practitioner in assessing kidney function. In general, albumin is a large protein which passes through the kidney filter to remain in circulation. However, damaged kidneys may allow small amounts of albumin to escape into urine. 

Compared to a standard urine protein test, which is just a measure of the protein content in urine, the UACR is a lot more sensitive. The UACR can compare amounts rather than just measuring creatinine levels, so it is a better indicator of overall kidney condition. 

UACR test is often performed when: 

1. You have diabetes or hypertension which can affect your kidneys. 

2. You exhibit symptoms of kidney problems like haematuria or Edema of the lower limbs. 

3. You or your family have a history of kidney infections. 

4. You suffer from other diseases such as hypertension or even heart disease which may affect your kidneys. 

Conducting a UACR test does not carry any risks. Nevertheless, there is a risk of sample contamination as is the case with any urine test. 

The UACR test is associated with some disadvantages: 

1. Mild kidney issues may not be picked up in the testing. 

2. Patients suffering from UTIs, haematuria, or other conditions can have altered results. 

3. This test is contraindicated in patients with severe renal insult or renal failure. 

Parameters taken into consideration in the UACR test include: 

1. Albumin: concentration of albumin within the provided urine sample 

2. Creatinine: urine sample concentration of creatinine 

3. Albumin-to-creatinine ratio: the concentration ratio of albumin to creatinine in the provided urine sample 

UACR test results are interpreted using the following ranges: 

Normal: present below 10 mg/g 

Abnormal: fall between the range of 10-100 mg/g (possible mild kidney damage) 

High: present at 100 mg/g and above (possible moderate to severe kidney damage) 

Reasons to consider taking the UACR test include: 

1. If there is a family history of kidney ailments. 

2. Suffering from diabetes or hypertension. 

3. Having blood visible within urine as well as having swollen feet and legs (Possible kidney damage symptoms). 

4. Consumption of medications that have negative effects on kidney health. 

This test can potentially uncover the existence of kidney damage or a kidney-related illness at a stage when treatment is relatively hassle-free. 

It is wise to maintain a close watch on kidney functionality due to the following factors: 

1. To commence the treatment earlier, so the disease development can be minimized. 

2. Lifestyle adjustments can be implemented to assist in controlling the current state of the patients. 

3. The blood and urine functions of the kidney can be checked periodically to change medicine whenever required. 

Kidney problems or diseases that can be detected with the help of a UACR test include 

1. Microalbuminuria, which is the presence of very low albumin amounts in urine 

2. Macroalbuminuria, where there is an increased amount of albumin in urine 

3. Kidney failure 

4. Nephrotic syndrome, a medical condition that is characterized by high protein excretion due to kidney's leaking capacity.

Prerequisites: 

You should be above the age of 18. 

You should have no health issues which can obstruct accurate test results, like a urinary system infection or haematuria. 

Eligibility: 

The UACR test is available for everyone but is especially beneficial for individuals who have a higher chance of kidney failure. 

Procedure of taking the test: 

1. Urinate in a clean container. 

2. The collected urine will then be sent to a laboratory for further analysis. 

3. The patient should follow directions from the healthcare professional on how to prepare for the test. 

Caution before taking the test:  

1. Exercise restraint on consumables which could negatively influence the test results. (For example, do not eat or drink anything with highly elevated level of protein or creatinine) 

2. Notify your doctor regarding specific medications that could alter the test results