Kidney Function Tests

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Serum: Measures urea nitrogen to evaluate kidney function and hydration status.

Creatinine, Serum: Assesses kidney function by measuring the creatinine level in the blood.

BUN/Creatinine Ratio: Differentiates between various kidney and other conditions by comparing BUN and creatinine levels.

Creatinine, Urine: Measures creatinine clearance, another marker for kidney function.

Albumin/Creatinine Ratio, Urine: Provides early detection of kidney damage by measuring the amount of albumin to creatinine in the urine.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): Calculates the rate of blood flow through the kidneys to estimate kidney function.

Regular Health Check: Ideal for annual or bi-annual general health monitoring, especially for those at risk of kidney issues due to diabetes, hypertension, or family history.

Experiencing Symptoms: Fatigue, swelling, frequent urination, or changes in urine color. An abnormal urine albumin/creatinine ratio may also be associated with increased protein in the urine, foamy urine, or high blood pressure.

Doctor's Recommendation: If a healthcare provider suggests monitoring your kidney function for any reason.

Special instructions: While fasting isn't typically necessary, it's important to follow your usual diet in the days leading up to the test. Extreme changes in diet can affect the results. For example, a high-protein diet can temporarily increase BUN levels.

Proper hydration is important, especially for urine tests. Dehydration can affect the concentration of substances in the urine and may lead to misleading results.

Albumin in Urine: Due to daily variations in urine albumin levels, a diagnosis should only be considered if two out of three albumin tests are abnormal within a 3-6 month period. Recent physical exercise, infections, fever, congestive heart failure, high blood sugar, or significant high blood pressure can temporarily increase albumin levels in urine

Low eGFR Levels: May indicate kidney damage or chronic kidney disease.

High BUN/Creatinine Ratio: Could signify kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or urinary tract issues.

High Albumin/Creatinine Ratio: Often indicates proteinuria, which can be a sign of kidney damage.