Why it's done

Your doctor may recommend a urine microalbumin test to detect early signs of kidney damage. Treatment may prevent or delay more-advanced kidney disease.

How often you need microalbumin tests depends on any underlying conditions and your risk of kidney damage. For example:

• Type 1 diabetes. If you have type 1 diabetes, your doctor may recommend a microalbumin test once a year beginning five years after your diagnosis.
• Type 2 diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, your doctor may recommend a microalbumin test once a year beginning immediately after your diagnosis.
• High blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend microalbumin tests more regularly. Discuss with your doctor how often to repeat this test.

If your urinary microalbumin level is elevated, your doctor may recommend treatment and more-frequent testing.