Blood tests are critical tools in diagnosing and monitoring kidney diseases. Here’s how they contribute:
- Creatinine Levels:
- Measures the amount of creatinine in the blood, a waste product filtered by the kidneys.
- Elevated levels indicate poor kidney function as the kidneys are unable to filter creatinine efficiently.
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN):
- Assesses the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from the waste product urea, normally filtered by the kidneys.
- High BUN levels suggest impaired kidney function or dehydration.
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR):
- Calculates how well the kidneys are filtering blood, providing an estimate of kidney function.
- Low eGFR values indicate decreased kidney function, used to stage chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- Electrolyte Levels (Sodium, Potassium, Bicarbonate):
- Measures the balance of electrolytes regulated by the kidneys.
- Imbalances highlight issues in kidney filtration and acid-base balance management.
- Serum Albumin:
- Lower levels can indicate kidney disease as the kidneys lose their ability to keep necessary proteins from passing into the urine.
- Reflects the nutritional status and overall health.
- Cystatin C:
- Alternative marker used to estimate kidney function and may be used alongside creatinine measurements.
- Higher levels can indicate reduced kidney function.
- Phosphate and Parathyroid Hormone (PTH):
- Elevated phosphate and PTH levels suggest disruptions in kidney function affecting bone health and mineral metabolism.
Regular blood tests provide detailed insights into kidney health. Early diagnosis and monitoring of kidney function through these tests allow for timely treatment, reducing risks of further complications.
c) Recommended Tests:
