Introduction
The albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) is a test that measures the amount of albumin in your urine in relation to the amount of creatinine. It can be used to detect and monitor kidney disease, as well as to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.
What is Albumin and Creatinine?
Albumin is a protein that is produced by the liver and is present in the blood. Creatinine is a waste product that is produced by the muscles and is excreted by the kidneys. The ACR measures the amount of albumin and creatinine in your urine and provides an indication of how well your kidneys are functioning.
Normal ACR Values
The normal ACR values vary depending on your age, gender, and ethnicity. In general, the normal ACR values are: – Less than 30 mg/g for adults – Less than 20 mg/g for children – Less than 3 mg/mmol for adults in the UK – Less than 2.5 mg/mmol for adults in Australia
Abnormal ACR Values
If your ACR is higher than the normal range, it may indicate that your kidneys are not functioning properly. A high ACR may be caused by: – Kidney disease – Diabetes – High blood pressure – Inflammation or infection of the kidneys – Certain medications
How to Prepare for the ACR Test
Before the ACR test, you may be asked to: – Avoid certain medications that can affect the test results – Drink plenty of water to ensure a good urine sample – Follow a specific diet or avoid certain foods
How is the ACR Test Performed?
The ACR test is a simple urine test that can be done in a lab or at your doctor’s office. You will be asked to provide a urine sample, which will be analyzed for the amount of albumin and creatinine.
Conclusion
The ACR test is an important tool for detecting and monitoring kidney disease, as well as assessing the risk of cardiovascular disease. If you have any concerns about your kidney health, talk to your doctor about getting an ACR test. Remember, early detection and treatment can help prevent serious kidney problems.