The Kidney Function Test (KFT) is a group of tests used to evaluate the performance of the kidneys, which are essential for filtering blood, maintaining electrolyte balance, and excreting waste. These tests help diagnose kidney diseases, monitor existing kidney conditions, and assess overall renal health. Dr. Anirban Biswas not only simplifies the interpretation of kidney function tests for easier comprehension, but also organizes Special Free Kidney Function Test Camps at his clinic in delhi every month. Get a free kidney function test in Delhi and take a proactive step towards your health. Early detection of kidney issues can prevent chronic complications.
Kidney Function Test Name: Other Common names for kidney function tests include KFT, Renal function test, and GFR-based tests for evaluating kidney health.
Key Components of Kidney Function Tests
Serum Creatinine
Normal Values:
Men: 0.7–1.3 mg/dL
Women: 0.6–1.1 mg/dL
Children: 0.2–1.0 mg/dL
Significance:
Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism, filtered by the kidneys. Elevated levels indicate impaired kidney filtration.
High Values:
Kidney dysfunction, dehydration, rhabdomyolysis, or certain medications.
Low Values:
Reduced muscle mass or malnutrition.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Normal Values:
Adults: 7–20 mg/dL
Children: 5–18 mg/dL
Significance:
Urea is a waste product of protein metabolism excreted by the kidneys. BUN reflects kidney function and protein intake.
High Values:
Kidney disease, dehydration, high protein intake, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Low Values:
Liver dysfunction, low protein intake, or overhydration.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
Normal Values:
90 mL/min/1.73 m²
Significance:
GFR measures how well the kidneys filter blood. It's the most accurate indicator of kidney function.
Low Values:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI).
High Values:
Rarely significant; typically seen in pregnancy or hyperfiltration.
Serum Electrolytes
Sodium (Na+):
Normal: 135–145 mEq/L
High: Hypernatremia (dehydration, kidney disease, or excess salt intake).
Low: Hyponatremia (kidney failure, SIADH, or fluid overload).
Potassium (K+):
Normal: 3.5–5.0 mEq/L
High: Hyperkalemia (kidney failure, acidosis, or medications like ACE inhibitors).
Low: Hypokalemia (diuretics, diarrhea, or malnutrition).
Chloride (Cl−):
Normal: 98–106 mEq/L
High: Hyperchloremia (acidosis or dehydration).
Low: Hypochloremia (alkalosis or vomiting).
Serum Albumin
Normal Values: 3.4–5.4 g/dL
Significance:
Low albumin levels indicate protein loss due to kidney damage, especially in nephrotic syndrome.
Uric Acid
Normal Values:
Men: 3.4–7.0 mg/dL
Women: 2.4–6.0 mg/dL
Significance:
High uric acid levels may signal kidney dysfunction or gout.
High Values:
Kidney disease, high purine diet, or medications.
Low Values:
Rare; may indicate Wilson's disease or certain drugs.
Urine Protein
Normal Values: <150 mg/day (or negative in routine tests)
Significance:
Protein in urine indicates kidney damage or disease.
High Values:
Glomerulonephritis, diabetes, or hypertension.
Low/Negative Values:
Normal kidney function.
Urine Creatinine Clearance
Normal Values:
Men: 97–137 mL/min
Women: 88–128 mL/min
Significance:
This test compares creatinine in urine with blood to evaluate kidney filtration efficiency.
Significance of Kidney Function Tests:
Diagnostic Tool:
Helps identify acute and chronic kidney conditions.
Monitoring:
Tracks the progression of kidney diseases or the impact of treatments.
Prevention:
Alerts to early kidney damage for lifestyle or medication changes.
Kidney Function Test Price:
Prices for kidney function tests can vary depending on the type of test and location. Typically, the cost ranges from ₹500 to ₹750.
How to Check Kidney Function at Home:
Basic indicators like urine color, proteinuria, and hydration status can offer preliminary insights into kidney health. However, professional tests are necessary for accurate diagnosis.
What is the Most Accurate Test for Kidney Function:
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is the most accurate indicator of kidney function, offering a precise measure of how well kidneys are filtering waste.
Renal Function Test List:
Renal function tests include assessments of creatinine, BUN, electrolytes, albumin, uric acid, and urine albumin.
Kidney Function Test Results:
Results typically show values for creatinine, BUN, sodium, potassium, and albumin, which are then compared to normal ranges for diagnosis.
High Readings: Common Causes
Acute/Chronic Kidney Disease: Poor filtration leads to elevated BUN, creatinine, and electrolyte imbalances.
Dehydration: Causes concentrated waste products in the blood.
Dietary Factors: High protein intake or certain medications.
Low Readings: Common Causes
Overhydration: Dilutes blood components.
Malnutrition: Leads to decreased protein and creatinine levels.
Liver Diseases: Can lower BUN levels due to impaired urea synthesis.
Table 1: Kidney Function Test - Normal Range and Interpretation
KFT Parameter | Normal Range | Abnormal | Associated Diseases |
Serum Creatinine | 0.6–1.3 mg/dL | High | Kidney disease |
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | 7–20 mg/dL | High | Kidney disease |
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) | >90 mL/min/1.73 m² | Low | Chronic kidney disease, hypertension |
Uric Acid | 3.4–7.0 mg/dL (Men), 2.4–6.0 mg/dL (Women) | High | Kidney disease, gout, certain medications |
Microalbuminuria (MAU) | 0–30 mg/day | High | Diabetic nephropathy, hypertension |
Urine AlbuminCreatinine Ratio (UACR) | <30 mg/g | High | Diabetic kidney disease, hypertension |
Easy Interpretation of Kidney Function Tests:
Creatinine:
High levels may indicate impaired kidney function or dehydration. Normal values range from 0.6 to 1.3 mg/dL.
Low levels could be associated with muscle wasting or malnutrition.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN):
Elevated BUN levels indicate kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or high protein intake. The normal range is 7–20 mg/dL.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR):
A GFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for more than three months suggests kidney disease. Normal GFR is greater than 90 mL/min/1.73 m².
Electrolytes:
Imbalances in sodium, potassium, and chloride can reflect kidney health. Normal ranges:
Sodium: 135–145 mEq/L
Potassium: 3.5–5.0 mEq/L
Albumin:
Low levels of albumin may indicate kidney damage, with normal values ranging from 3.4–5.4 g/dL.
Conclusion
Regular monitoring of kidney function is crucial, particularly for individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection allows timely intervention, preventing progression to kidney failure. Regular kidney check-ups are crucial for maintaining overall health. A free kidney function test in Delhi ensures accessible and affordable care. Don’t miss this chance to safeguard your kidney health and detect potential problems early. Consult Dr Anirban Biswas for interpreting results and designing a personalized management plan.
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