Albumin is measured in patients with diabetes because it is the earliest clinically detectable sign of diabetic nephropathy. Urinary albumin levels > 3000 mg/d are indicative of nephrotic syndrome.
Microalbuminuria is defined as urinary albumin excretion of >20 μg/min or an ACR > 30 mg/g creatinine. In this phase, aggressive management of the disease may potentially return albumin levels to the normal range.
Random spot urine samples can reliably be assessed and are much less challenging to collect than a 24-hour urine collection. An ACR of 30-300 mg/g creatinine is indicative of microalbuminuria.
Learn more about diabetic nephropathy.
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Cite this: A. Brent Alper. Fast Five Quiz: Diabetic Nephropathy Presentation and Diagnosis - Medscape - Apr 24, 2020.
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