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The albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) is an important laboratory test that helps assess the health of the kidneys and detect early stages of diseases associated with impaired kidney function. This test is often used to diagnose chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in people with diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

What is the albumin-creatinine ratio?

Albumin is a protein that is normally almost never excreted in the urine. Its presence may indicate damage to the kidney filters. Creatinine, in turn, is a product of muscle metabolism that is constantly excreted from the body through the kidneys.

The ACS test measures the amount of albumin in the urine, adjusted for creatinine levels, which allows for more accurate results than simply measuring protein concentration. This is especially important for random (morning) urine samples, where the accuracy of the measurement depends on urine concentration.

Why take an ACS test?

Analysis of the albumin-creatinine ratio allows:

Detect early stages of kidney damage: ACS allows you to detect even a slight increase in albumin levels, which is the first signal of impaired kidney function.
To control the condition in chronic diseases: Patients with diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease are recommended to periodically undergo this test.
Assess the effectiveness of treatment: When treating kidney disease, AKS helps doctors track changes and adjust therapy.
Prevent complications: Early detection of problems can avoid the development of kidney failure.

How to prepare for the analysis

Preparation for the analysis is simple and does not require any special measures:

Urine collection is carried out in the morning, immediately after waking up.
Before collecting urine, it is necessary to perform genital hygiene.
Use a sterile container to collect urine.
Avoid excessive physical exertion and eating large amounts of protein foods on the eve of the test.

Normal values and deviations

The table shows the values of ACS for different categories of patients:

Category	Norm of ACS (mg/mmol)	Increased risk (mg/mmol)	High risk (mg/mmol)
Adults	< 2.5 (in men)	2.5–30	>30
	< 3.5 (in women)	3.5–30	>30

Decoding the results:

Norm: If the ACS level is less than 2.5 mg/mmol in men and 3.5 mg/mmol in women, this indicates the absence of pathologies.
Microalbuminuria: An indicator from 2.5 to 30 mg/mmol is a signal of initial kidney damage.
Macroalbuminuria: If the ACS exceeds 30 mg/mmol, this indicates significant renal dysfunction.

Factors affecting results

Various factors can affect the results of the analysis, including:

Physical activity: Intense exercise can increase albumin levels.
Diet: Eating a lot of protein foods may alter the results.
Dehydration: Low fluid levels in the body affect creatinine concentration.
Medications: Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can distort the readings.

When to see a doctor

You should consult a doctor if:

Obtaining results that exceed the norm.
The presence of symptoms such as swelling, increased blood pressure, changes in urine color.
Chronic diseases that can affect the condition of the kidneys.

Where to take the test in Khmelnytskyi

In the medical laboratory Medilab You can quickly and efficiently pass the analysis for albumin-creatinine ratio. Modern equipment and qualified specialists will ensure the accuracy of the results and their quick receipt.

The health of your kidneys is the foundation of your overall well-being. Don't put off getting checked, take care of yourself today!