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Normally, protein stays in the body. Little or no protein shows up in the urine.
A result of less than 30 micrograms per milligram (mcg/mg) is normal. This means that your kidneys are most likely working well.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your test results.
The examples above show the common measurements for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test different specimens.
If the test finds albumin in your urine, your doctor may repeat the test.
Abnormal results may mean your kidneys are starting to get damaged. But the damage may not yet be bad. There are two ways you may see abnormal results reported:
You will need more tests must be done to confirm a problem. The test will also show how bad any kidney damage may be.
Most often the problem is caused by diabetes. Higher levels may also occur with some immune disorders and high blood pressure. It may also happen with narrowing of the artery of the kidneys.
American Diabetes Association. Standards of medical care in diabetes -- 2011. Diabetes Care. 2011;34:S11-S61.
Inzucchi SE, Sherwin RS. Type 1 diabetes mellitus. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 247.
Inzucchi SE, Sherwin RS. Type 2 diabetes mellitus. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 248.
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