The creatinine clearance test is a crucial tool for assessing kidney function. Here’s a closer look at how the test works and why it’s essential:
- What is Creatinine?
- Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle metabolism. It is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted in urine. Creatinine levels in the blood and urine can indicate how well the kidneys are functioning.
- How is the Test Performed?
- The creatinine clearance test involves collecting urine over a 24-hour period. During this time, a blood sample is also taken to measure the creatinine level in your bloodstream. The results from both the urine and blood tests are compared to determine how efficiently your kidneys are filtering creatinine.
- What Does it Assess?
- The test evaluates the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a key indicator of kidney health. A lower-than-normal creatinine clearance can indicate kidney damage or impaired kidney function. It is often used to monitor patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, or high blood pressure.
- Why is it Important?
- It provides more accurate information than a standard blood test, as it measures how much creatinine is actually being cleared from your blood by your kidneys. This helps doctors detect kidney problems early and monitor treatment progress.
Recommended Tests
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
This test helps assess kidney function by measuring the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from the waste product urea.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test - Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
A blood test that estimates how well the kidneys filter blood, commonly used alongside creatinine clearance tests to evaluate kidney health.
eGFR Test
