Let’s talk kidneys, a bean-shaped organ in our body responsible for managing fluids and waste. Kidney failure and diseases are more common than we realize. Since we have two kidneys, people are often lax about caring for them. But kidney failure has been proven to be serious and potentially fatal. Regular testing to keep kidney diseases at bay is essential. In this blog, we cover all the tests that are taken to assess kidney function.
With kidney problems hitting 10% of the global population and kidney cancer on the rise, early detection through screening and testing is important. Learn about the tests that keep our kidneys in check!
Serum creatinine test
Muscles break down, creating a waste product called creatinine. Normally, your kidneys handle creatinine by filtering it from your blood and eliminating it through urine. Therefore, it serves as an indicator of kidney function and to ascertain problems with the kidneys. Elevated creatinine levels can thus indicate impaired kidney filtration. The Serum Creatinine test measures creatinine levels in the blood. The normal creatinine level is hard to define as it can change depending on various factors such as age, sex, medical history, weight, etc.
Cystatin C
Cystatin C is a protein produced by your body and found in various fluids, particularly your blood. The kidney glomeruli filter Cystatin C as they create filtrate fluid. However, the kidneys then reabsorb Cystatin C, along with glucose and other substances, from this filtrate. Only the excess fluid waste products are eliminated as urine. A decline in kidney function leads to decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and increased cystatin C.
e-glomerular filtration rate
Kidneys take on the role of filtering out toxins and waste from the blood. This filtration happens within tiny clusters of blood vessels called glomeruli. If your kidneys aren’t working as well, the filtration rate slows down. So as to assess how well your kidneys are filtering toxins, doctors can order a creatinine test. The test also measures creatinine and cystatin C and assesses the kidney’s filtration process at the rate at which it has increased compared to normal levels.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
The BUN test, as the name suggests, measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood to evaluate kidney function. It determines the effectiveness of dialysis treatment. While the test measures the amount, it doesn’t conclude the cause of the increase or decrease in the blood.
Urinalysis
Urinalysis is a simple test that checks a sample of your urine for any abnormal levels. It detects urinary tract infection, kidney problems, or diabetes and it is done along with regular health checkups.
ACR ratio
The urine albumin and creatinine ratio measures two different substances in the blood: albumin and creatinine. Healthy kidneys filter out the creatinine into the urine and keep the albumin in the blood. Hence, the amount albumin in the urine should be less. The ratio is calculated by dividing the amount of urine albumin by the amount of urine creatinine. A “normal” ACR level is lower than 30 mg/g.
Culture and Sensitivity—Urine
A Culture and sensitivity, or urine culture test, looks for bacteria that cause urinary tract infection (UTIs). It also helps in determining the most effective antibodies to treat infection. A simple test that checks a sample of your urine for any abnormal levels. It also detects urinary tract infection, kidney problems, or diabetes.
Kidney Biopsy
Doctors perform a kidney biopsy to diagnose kidney cancer. During the procedure, they remove a small tissue sample from your kidney and examine it under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. A biopsy is recommended when symptoms of kidney cancer is found.
Kidney ultrasound
Ultrasound of the kidney or Renal ultrasound, uses sound waves to assess kidney function. It also assists in kidney biopsies.
Kidney CT
Kidney CT test uses x-rays to get many detailed pictures of the kidneys or other parts of the body. It also assesses structural abnormalities or any obstructions surrounding the kidney.
MRI Kidney
Using radio waves and magnetic fields, MRI kidney assesses any abnormalities or substances found in the kidney. It can also help detect and monitor various kidney conditions, like kidney vein thrombosis, kidney cancer, chronic kidney disease, etc. MRI Kidney is an effective tool to analyze various kidney problems. It also identifies any abnormalities in the kidney easily and accurately.
In conclusion, understanding and monitoring kidney function are crucial for maintaining overall health. The array of tests discussed in this blog serves as essential tools in evaluating different aspects of kidney health. Each test plays a unique role, contributing to early detection and intervention of kidney diseases. Therefore, these tests collectively empower individuals and healthcare professionals to safeguard kidney well-being. Remember, a proactive approach to kidney health is an investment in a healthier, more vibrant future! Book your appointment at Aarthi Scans and labs or visit your nearest center!