Crucial Lab Tests For Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition where the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood gradually deteriorates over time. This leads to a buildup of toxins and fluids in the body. CKD develops slowly. Currently, there is no cure. CKD symptoms can be managed, and the progression of the disease can be slowed down.

The Essential Key Blood Tests

There is a range of values that provide information about whether the kidneys are functioning properly or are in danger of being damaged. Here is a breakdown of the  tests to monitor:

CREATININE

As muscles use energy, creatine is converted into creatinine, which is released into the bloodstream. The kidneys are responsible for filtering out creatinine and other waste products from the blood.

A blood test to measure the creatinine levels is usually a quality marker of kidney function. Elevated creatinine levels can indicate that the kidneys are not efficiently filtering properly. Creatinine levels only rise when kidney function has already declined by almost 50%.

GFR AND EGFR

GFR (glomerular filtration rate) refers to how well the kidneys filter blood. 

• This is a high-quality test to assess kidney function, but it is a difficult test to perform (requires multiple blood draws).

eGFR (estimated GFR) is an estimation of the filtration rate based on blood tests and other factors (such as creatinine levels, age, sex and race).

• This is a practical and widely used test to estimate kidney function.

• It can be calculated from a single blood test, which is easier to perform than a GFR test.

• It is important to remember this test is an estimation, not a specific measurement.

• eGFR is used to measure kidney disease.

ALBUMIN

This is a protein produced in the liver and is the most abundant protein in the blood. 

• Albumin found in the urine is an indication of kidney disease.

• Albumin in the urine is a key factor of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is a factor in deciding CKD stages and progression.

• This can also be a sign of poorly controlled diabetes.

“Both the eGFR and the albumin level help doctors to detect chronic kidney disease and monitor its progression. If the eGFR is below 60 millilitres per minute, this is referred to as impaired kidney function. A GFR of 60 ml/min corresponds to a kidney function of approximately 60%.”

BLOOD UREA NITROGEN (BUN)

Urea nitrogen is a waste product formed when the body breaks down protein. The kidneys are responsible for removing urea from the blood.

• When kidney function is impaired, they can not filter urea efficiently. BUN levels then increase in the blood.

• A BUN test can help doctors see how well the kidneys are functioning and monitor the effectiveness of any kidney treatments.

URINE ANALYSIS AND 24-HOUR COLLECTION

A urinalysis can detect any abnormalities, like protein, blood, or bacteria in the urine. This can indicate kidney damage or infection.

A 24-hour urine collection allows for a more direct measurement of protein, creatinine, and other substances in the urine.

Conclusion

Lab tests are crucial for monitoring and diagnosing kidney disease. They provide insights into kidney function, detect early signs for damage and help design treatment plans. Many people don’t experience symptoms of kidney disease until it's in advanced stages. Lab tests are essential for detecting problems early, before significant damage occurs.

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