what is acr

ACR stands for "Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio". It is a urine test used to detect kidney damage, particularly as a complication of diabetes. The test measures the amount of a protein called albumin in the urine and divides it by the amount of creatinine in the urine. A high ACR level indicates more severe kidney disease, while a low ACR value probably means the kidneys are functioning normally. The ACR test is the first method of preference to detect elevated protein and is recommended to evaluate albuminuria. The ACR test is also used to screen for albuminuria in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or at risk for CKD.