At-Home Kidney Albumin Test for Early Detection of Kidney Issues
GetTested Kidney Albumin Test is designed for adults who want an easy way to keep an eye on their kidney health at home. Using a small urine sample, the test checks for higher-than-normal levels of albumin, a protein that can leak into the urine when the kidneys are damaged. The CE-marked test provides a clear visual result in just 5 minutes, helping you see whether further follow-up with a healthcare professional may be needed.
What is albumin?
Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma and is produced by the liver. It transports various substances (such as bilirubin, fatty acids and thyroid hormones), helps maintain the normal fluid balance between blood and tissues, and can be used as a reserve source of amino acids.
Under normal circumstances, only very small amounts of albumin pass into the urine. Persistently elevated levels of albumin in urine (albuminuria) may indicate kidney damage or other underlying health issues.
What does the Kidney Albumin Test measure?
The Kidney Albumin Test is a rapid immunochromatographic test that semi-quantitatively detects albumin in human urine. The test has a cut-off of 10 µg/ml.
- Negative result: albumin levels are normal or below the cut-off used to calibrate the test.
- Positive result: albumin levels are higher than normal and at or above the cut-off value.
Who is this test for?
This test may be relevant for adults who want to monitor kidney health at home, especially if they:
- have high blood pressure, diabetes or cardiovascular disease
- are overweight or have high blood lipids
- have been advised by a healthcare professional to monitor kidney function
- have symptoms related to the urinary tract and wish to perform an initial home check
The test is not intended to replace regular medical check-ups or professional diagnostics.
How the test works
The test strip inside the cassette contains antibodies that specifically bind albumin. When a urine sample is added, any albumin present will bind to these antibodies and form a visible coloured line in the test window. A separate control line confirms that the test has been performed correctly.
How to perform the test
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Collect a urine sample in a clean, dry container (preferably the first morning urine).
- Use the pipette to draw up urine and add 3 drops into the sample well (S) on the test cassette.
- Wait 5 minutes.
- Read the result according to the instructions in the leaflet.
Interpreting the results
- Negative: Two coloured lines appear – one in the control region (C) and one in the test region (T). The T line may be lighter than the C line.
- Positive: Only one coloured line appears in the control region (C). No line is visible in the test region (T).
- Invalid: No control line appears, or a line appears only in the test region (T). The result cannot be interpreted – repeat the test with a new cassette.
Factors that may affect the result
Intense physical exercise or high fever shortly before testing can temporarily increase albumin levels in urine and lead to a positive result. Very diluted urine (for example after a high fluid intake) may lead to a false negative result. Always follow the instructions carefully.
What to do next
- If the result is positive: Contact your doctor or healthcare provider for further evaluation. Additional tests may be needed to confirm or rule out kidney disease and to identify possible causes.
- If the result is negative but symptoms persist: Discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional. A single negative test does not rule out all kidney problems.
Contents of the kit
- 1 sealed aluminium pouch containing:
- 1 Kidney Albumin Test cassette
- 1 desiccant sachet
- 1 plastic pipette
- 1 instruction leaflet
For in vitro diagnostic use. For self-testing. Store at +4–30 °C and keep out of reach of children.