What does a high protein-to-creatinine ratio mean?
A high urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) means your kidneys are leaking protein into your urine, which is a sign they're not filtering properly. This happens when the glomeruli (tiny filters in your kidneys) are damaged and allow proteins that should stay in your Show Full Answer
What does a high protein-to-creatinine ratio mean?
A high urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) means your kidneys are leaking protein into your urine, which is a sign they're not filtering properly. This happens when the glomeruli (tiny filters in your kidneys) are damaged and allow proteins that should stay in your blood to pass into your urine.
The uACR test compares albumin (your blood's main protein) to creatinine to assess kidney function. Here's what the numbers mean:
- 30 to 300 mg/g: Microalbuminuria (early kidney damage)
- Above 300 mg/g: Macroalbuminuria (more significant kidney damage)
A high ratio can be an early sign of kidney disease. The higher your uACR value, the greater your risk of kidney disease progression. Your doctor may repeat the test within three months to confirm the results, since factors like exercise, dehydration, fever, or urinary tract infections can temporarily raise protein levels.
If you have a consistently high ratio, it's important to work with your nephrologist on a treatment plan to help protect your kidney function.
March 17
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