Final answer:
Albuminuria is an indicator of nephron damage and can suggest CKD. It can be detected using a urine dipstick or more accurately through the albumin-to-creatinine ratio test.
Step-by-step explanation:
Albuminuria is a significant indicator of kidney damage, specifically of the nephrons. It is identified as the presence of albumin in the urine, which should not normally be excreted in significant amounts. Albuminuria is particularly important in the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetic nephropathy.
Increased excretion of albumin in the urine can indeed suggest underlying CKD. Kidneys affected by CKD often have impaired filtering capabilities, allowing substances like albumin to pass through the glomeruli and into the urine.
Urine dipstick is a common and quick screening tool that can detect albuminuria. It is often used as a preliminary test to indicate whether further analysis is required.
The albumin-to-creatinine ratio is a more precise test that can confirm albuminuria. This test measures the amount of albumin in the urine and compares it to the level of creatinine, providing a more accurate indication of kidney function.