Overview of kidney function tests

Kidney function tests are medical tests that evaluate kidney health through blood, urine or imaging methods. They are mainly used to screen for kidney disease, monitor disease progression or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. Core inspection items includeSerum creatinine (Scr), urea nitrogen (BUN), glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)andUrine protein quantificationWait. Among them, eGFR is a key indicator that reflects the filtration function of the kidney, while abnormal urinary protein may indicate early kidney damage. The examination results need to be comprehensively judged based on clinical symptoms. Some items may be interfered by factors such as diet and exercise, so preparations need to be made in advance according to the doctor's advice.

Core items of renal function tests

Common kidney function tests are divided intoblood testandurine testTwo major categories. During blood testing,Serum creatinineandUrea nitrogenIt is a basic indicator. If the value rises, it may indicate decreased renal function;eGFRCalculated through formulas, it can more accurately reflect the actual function of the kidneys. Urine testing includesUrine routineand24-hour urine protein quantification, the former can detect abnormalities such as urinary protein and red blood cells, and the latter is used to quantify the degree of protein loss. In some cases, it is necessary to combineKidney ultrasoundorCTAssisted diagnosis.

Clinical significance of test results

Abnormal kidney function may manifest asDecreased eGFR(<60ml/min/1.73m² for 3 months) orurine protein positive. Acute kidney injury is mostly caused by infection, drugs, etc., while chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often related to hypertension and diabetes. For example, if diabetic patients have excessive urinary microalbumin, they need to be alert to early kidney disease. The inspection results need to be dynamically observed, and a single abnormality may need to be reviewed and confirmed to avoid misjudgment.

Check the precautions and applicable groups

Before inspection, you shouldAvoid strenuous exerciseandhigh protein diet, some medications (such as antibiotics) may interfere with the results. Regular screening is recommended for the following groups of people:Hypertensive/diabetic patients,long-term drug users(such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs),People with a family history of kidney disease. The elderly need to pay more attention to changes in eGFR due to the natural decline of renal function. If the results are abnormal, the doctor may make further arrangementskidney biopsyorelectrolyte check.

Summary and health advice

Renal function tests are an important means of preventing and managing kidney disease, especially for high-risk groups. Early kidney disease is often asymptomatic, and regular screening can help with early detection and early intervention. daily needsControl blood pressure and blood sugar,Avoid drug abuse,Keep drinking water properly. If you are diagnosed with kidney disease, you need to adjust your lifestyle as directed by your doctor and undergo regular check-ups to delay the progression of the disease.

Quote sources:
1. "Guidelines for Early Assessment and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease in China" (Nephrology Branch of Chinese Medical Association, 2020)
2. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Kidney Disease Database
3. Common testing equipment manufacturers: Roche Diagnostics (Cobas series), Siemens Healthcare (ADVIA series)