Microalbuminuria

Microalbuminuria

Introduction

Microalbuminuria is a medical condition characterized by the excretion of small amounts (micro-level) of albumin into the urine, often indicating early kidney disease or damage.

Definition and Significance

Illustration of kidney structure and function.

Microalbuminuria is defined as the presence of 30-300 mg of albumin per gram of creatinine in the urine. It is an important early sign of kidney damage, especially in the context of diabetes and hypertension.

Causes

The primary causes of microalbuminuria include:

• Diabetic nephropathy
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease
• Inflammation of the kidney (glomerulonephritis)

Pathophysiology

Under normal conditions, the kidneys filter waste while retaining essential proteins like albumin. Microalbuminuria occurs when the kidneys' filtering system is damaged, allowing albumin to leak into the urine.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves urine tests, such as:

• A spot urine test for albumin-to-creatinine ratio
• A 24-hour urine test for precise albumin measurement

Clinical Importance

Microalbuminuria is a marker for increased risk of:

• Progressive kidney disease
• Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, particularly in diabetic and hypertensive patients

Management and Treatment

Management focuses on:

• Treating the underlying cause (e.g., controlling diabetes and hypertension)
• Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise)
• Medications like ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers

Prognosis

Early detection and management of microalbuminuria can slow the progression of kidney disease and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Epidemiology

Microalbuminuria is common in individuals with diabetes and hypertension, but can also occur in other conditions and even in some healthy individuals.

See Also

• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Nephrology

External Links

• National Kidney Foundation - Microalbuminuria
• Mayo Clinic - Diabetic Nephropathy

Microalbuminuria Resources
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