What does the 24-Hour Urine Albumin Excretion test measure?

Why is 24-Hour Urine Albumin Excretion measured?

Urine albumin excretion is the most sensitive early marker of glomerular injury and the cornerstone of chronic kidney disease staging. Persistent albuminuria defines CKD categories A2 (30–300 mg/d, moderately increased) and A3 (>300 mg/d, severely increased), both of which independently predict progression to end-stage kidney disease and cardiovascular events. Albuminuria is also the earliest detectable sign of diabetic nephropathy and a target for renoprotective therapy with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. Serial measurements guide treatment titration and monitor response.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

<30 mg/24 h in healthy adults.

Functional medicine optimal

The KDIGO guideline threshold for 'normal to mildly increased' albuminuria is <30 mg/24 h; values ≥30 mg/24 h warrant intervention and monitoring.

Units

mg/24 h, mg/d

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.