Urine
Microalbumin (albumin/creatinine ratio)
Measures albumin and creatinine in urine and calculates their ratio. For people with diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease in the family.
€ 23,00
Urine test at home – no collection point needed
How it works
- 01
Receive your collection kit
You receive a urine collection kit with clear instructions
- 02
Collect your sample
Easily collect a urine sample yourself
- 03
Mail back
Return via medical mail to the lab
What is microalbumin?
Microalbumin is the old name for small amounts of albumin in the urine. Albumin is the main protein in the blood; healthy kidneys let almost none of it through. This test measures albumin and creatinine in the same urine sample and calculates the ratio: the albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR). That way, it matters little how much you have drunk.
Why test for microalbumin?
Albumin in the urine is often the first sign of kidney damage, even before kidney function in the blood declines and long before you have symptoms. The test is especially useful in diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease or kidney disease in the family, together with the eGFR in blood.
Preferably collect morning urine and avoid heavy exercise the day before. Fever, a bladder infection or menstruation can raise the result temporarily.
What does it indicate?
The Dutch GP guideline (NHG) on chronic kidney damage uses the albumin/creatinine ratio together with the eGFR to diagnose kidney damage and classify the risk. A raised ratio also goes with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
What does a high microalbumin level mean?
According to the NHG, a ratio below 3 mg/mmol is normal, 3 to 30 mg/mmol moderately raised and above 30 mg/mmol severely raised (in mg/g roughly 30 and 300). A raised ratio usually points to damage to the kidney filters due to diabetes or high blood pressure, but it can also be temporary. Chronic kidney damage is only present if the ratio stays raised for at least 3 months.
What does a low microalbumin level mean?
A low ratio is favorable: your kidneys let almost no albumin through. A value that is too low does not exist as a problem. A normal ratio does not rule out reduced filtering function of the kidneys; that requires the eGFR in blood.
Preparation and sampling
- Preferably use your first morning urine.Applies to: Albumine
- Avoid heavy exercise in the 24 hours before collecting the urine; it temporarily raises albumin.Applies to: Albumine
Risks and downsides of this test
- Collecting urine. The quality of the sample depends on when and how it is collected. A wrongly collected sample can distort the result.
- No test is one hundred percent reliable. A result can point to something that is not there, or miss something that is. A result is a snapshot and does not make a diagnosis.
- An abnormal result has consequences. It can lead to follow-up tests with your GP, and to worry that turns out to be unnecessary. Follow-up tests or treatment can have downsides of their own.
- Incidental findings are not expected with this test. An incidental finding is something other than what you were looking for. During checkout you choose whether you want to be informed about one.
Kidneys and electrolytes1
Other analyses2
Always discuss an abnormal result with your GP. If a result is strongly abnormal, we try to reach you as soon as possible. Read your result yourself as well and contact your GP if in doubt. A test does not make a diagnosis. Read more about risks and results
Independent information sources
We recommend consulting these independent sources before ordering a preventive health check.
Practical information
Frequently asked questions
How does the urine test work from A to Z?
After ordering we ship the collection kit to your home. You collect urine following the instructions, return it in the envelope, and receive your result digitally by email.
How do I collect my urine sample correctly?
Follow the included instructions, usually the midstream method in a sterile container. Pay attention to the right timing (first morning urine or random, depending on the test).
Do I need to avoid anything before collection?
For some tests yes (e.g. certain foods or supplements). Whether this applies is stated in the instructions. Read them before you start.
When and how do I receive my result?
Usually 2 to 5 working days after the lab receives your sample. You receive your laboratory report securely by email. It lists the measured values, units, reference ranges and any flags added by the laboratory.
How do I return the collection materials to the lab?
Use the supplied return envelope and place it in the letter-mail bag inside a PostNL service point yourself as soon as possible. Do not hand it to counter staff or request track & trace. The instructions supplied with your test state when it must be sent.
What if I have questions or something doesn't work?
Feel free to contact us via WhatsApp, email or phone. We're happy to help you before, during or after your test. If the collection doesn't work, we'll arrange a solution or send new materials — no hassle.
Not sure which test is right for you? We’re happy to help.
WhatsApp+31 (0)412 23 69 61E-mailinfo@bloedcheckup.nlShippingDiscreet mailbox delivery
Didn't find what you're looking for?Request a custom testWeekdays 09:00 – 17:00
“Very positive experience”
From ordering to having my blood drawn, everything went smoothly and was well organised. I really appreciated being able to visit a blood collection location in my own town so quickly. I received clear instructions beforehand, and the results arrived promptly by email too. Very satisfied!
ElineVerified
“Good communication”
This company responds to questions thoroughly and promptly. The entire process, from requesting the test to having blood drawn and receiving the results, runs very smoothly. Overall, I am very satisfied!
Jacques QuipèreVerified
“Wide choice of tests, fast and affordable”
You can choose the tests yourself. Fast delivery and processing, clear instructions and affordable.
SMVerified
“I am satisfied with the service”
I received a referral by email, just like from a GP. I did not have to send anything by post and could quickly visit a local blood collection centre. The results were fast and clear. The price was good, not too expensive, and all messages were secure.
kraljicaVerified
“A very good experience”
A very good experience! I received quick answers to my questions, a custom blood test was put together, everything was arranged smoothly, and I could have my blood drawn by a healthcare professional nearby. The results were available within a few days. In short, very satisfied!
PhilVerified
“Very good customer service”
The customer service is very good. I had a complex request, which caused an issue at the blood collection centre. Customer service resolved it very well. They also offer a wide range of tests at a reasonable price.
Marc EekhoutVerified
“Everything was well organised”
Everything was well organised. The products were delivered within a few days and, after sending in the samples, the results arrived within a few days too. Communication and information throughout the process were clear and friendly.
martijnVerified
“Fantastic service”
Fantastic service! Very good customer service that responds quickly and thinks along with you. Good prices. I will definitely use BloedCheckup's services again.
kambalesVerified
“Very happy to have found this business”
Very happy to have found this business. We need to check our blood more often :) The process was easy. They sent me the kit at home, then I had to go to a clinic with the papers and they knew what they had to do. I got the results in less than a week.
DenisaVerified
“Smooth process and good support”
Amazing website experience. I ordered various tests for 2 people. We went to one of the supported centers and took samples. Also after the results were ready, I needed a letter from the laboratory and they prepared the letter for me in no time. Definitely recommended.
Majid HajiheidariVerified
“Amazing service!”
Received a packet with everything needed, went to a walk in clinic (Amsterdam DC Clinic) where my blood was drawn and I was out the door within 5 minutes, and then after posting the samples, received results 2 days later. Results were easy to understand as well. Amazing service, would highly recommend!
Trudi CoetzeeVerified
“Great customer service”
I ordered a test through bloedcheckup.nl but later realized I no longer needed it. I contacted their support team, and they were very quick, responsive, and helpful in handling my cancellation. The whole process was smooth and efficient. Great customer service!
Elif Göksu BecerikVerified