1. What is the difference between albumin, prealbumin, and microalbumin tests?
The
prealbumin test measures a
protein that reflects your nutritional status, particularly before and after surgery, or if you are hospitalized or taking nutritional supplements.
Albumin testing is more often used to test for
liver or
kidney disease or to learn if your body is not absorbing enough
amino acids. Albumin can also be used to monitor nutritional status. However, prealbumin changes more quickly, making it more useful for detecting changes in short-term nutritional status than albumin. The microalbumin test measures very small levels of albumin in your urine and may indicate whether you are at risk for developing kidney disease.
^ Back to top
2. Is microalbumin just smaller molecules of albumin?
Microalbumin tests for a small amount of albumin, not smaller molecules.
^ Back to top
3. What is the test finding in my urine?
If you are diabetic, each year your doctor will test a sample of your urine to see if your kidneys are leaking albumin, even in small amounts. It is good news if your kidneys are not leaking even small amounts of albumin.
^ Back to top
4. Are there other reasons for having increased microalbumin levels in urine?
Yes, microalbuminuria is not specific for
diabetes. It may also be associated with
hypertension (high blood pressure), some lipid abnormalities, and several immune disorders. Elevated results may also be caused by vigorous exercise, blood in the urine, urinary tract infection,
dehydration, and some drugs.
^ Back to top
