The urine albumin–creatinine ratio helps assess whether the kidneys are leaking a blood protein into urine. In Sweden your result may be labelled U-albumin/kreatinin or ACR. An abnormal result needs interpretation alongside previous tests, blood pressure and symptoms.
Why measure a ratio?
Albumin is a protein in blood. Relating urine albumin to urine creatinine reduces the effect of urine dilution. This is different from measuring creatinine in a blood sample, so the numbers are not directly comparable.
Fever and physical activity can temporarily increase urine albumin. One raised result does not, by itself, establish persistent kidney disease. Your clinician may request another sample under more comparable conditions.
Which question does each test answer?
| Test | Main question |
|---|---|
| Urine ACR | How much albumin is present relative to urine creatinine? |
| Blood creatinine and eGFR | What is the estimated kidney filtration function? |
| Urine dipstick | Are there findings, such as blood or protein, needing further assessment? |
Make the repeat test useful
Use the supplied container and follow the laboratory instructions for morning sampling, labelling and delivery. Mention recent fever, strenuous exercise or urinary symptoms. Repeated self-ordered tests aimed at finding the lowest number are unlikely to answer the clinical question.
- Keep the result, unit and laboratory reference interval together.
- Ask whether another sample is needed and who will arrange it.
- Bring your medicine list and earlier kidney results.
- Ask what a persistent finding would change in your care plan.
Getting help in Sweden
Contact the ordering clinic or your vårdcentral, a primary care centre, to discuss the result. Visible blood in urine needs assessment even if ACR is normal. Blood in urine with fever or back pain needs prompt assessment. Call 1177 if you are unsure where to seek care.
Does foamy urine show the same thing?
No. Describe the change if you have noticed it, but appearance does not provide a measurement of albumin leakage. A useful question for your appointment is which investigation fits your symptoms, rather than whether the foam proves a diagnosis.
Sources and further reading
- 1177: Urinprov (in Swedish)
- Karolinska: Albumin i urin (in Swedish)
- 1177: Blod i urinen (in Swedish)
Sources and links checked on 22 October 2026. Editorial team: Hagakliniken. General information; individual assessment may differ.