The albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) is an important marker in blood and urine tests that is widely used to evaluate kidney function. This blog explains what the ACR is, what it indicates about your health, and why it is also relevant in tests such as the testosterone-free and SHBG test on Bloodvaluestest.co.uk.
What is the Albumin/Creatinine Ratio?
The albumin/creatinine ratio measures the amount of albumin (a type of protein) present in the urine and compares it to the amount of creatinine (a waste product of muscle metabolism) in the urine. This ratio is used to determine if there is an abnormal amount of protein in the urine, a condition known as albuminuria or proteinuria.
Importance of the Albumin/Creatinine Ratio.
An elevated ACR can be an early sign of Kidney damage, especially in people with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. Renal impairment can lead to increased urinary albumin excretion, which can be an indicator of impaired kidney filter function.
Normal values for the Albumin/Creatinine Ratio.
- Normal: Less than 30 mg/g
- Mildly elevated: 30-300 mg/g
- Highly elevated: More than 300 mg/g
These values may vary depending on the specific laboratory and measurement methods used.
Albumin in the Testosterone-Free and SHBG Test
At Bloedwaardentest.nl, albumin is also measured in the context of the testosterone-free and SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) test. This is because albumin plays a role in binding sex hormones in the blood. Albumin binds to both testosterone and other hormones, but in a weaker form compared to SHBG.
The measurement of albumin helps to accurately calculate the amount of free testosterone in the blood, which is crucial for the proper assessment of hormonal status and function. Free testosterone is the active part of testosterone that is not bound to proteins and available for use by the body.
