Albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) is the first method of preference to detect elevated protein. The recommended method to evaluate albuminuria is to measure urinary ACR in a spot urine sample.

SPECIMEN: 15 mL (10 mL min.) aliquot of 24-hour urine in a sterile screw capped container. Do not use preservatives. Record 24 hour volume on test request form and urine container. Ship refrigerated or frozen.

STABILITY: Room: 6 hrs; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 3 months

REPORT: Daily

USAGE: The term Microalbuminuria is misleading as it implies a small version of albumin molecule rather than an excretion rate of albumin greater than normal but less than that detected by routine method. It is recommended to use term Albuminuria or Albumin Creatinine ratio (ACR) instead of Microalbuminuria.