Lab test · Kidney
Kidney function tests
Kidney function tests use creatinine, eGFR and urine albumin to assess how well your kidneys filter. Learn what's included and who should be tested.
Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated
What the tests include
The core blood tests are creatinine and the calculated eGFR. A urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) is often added to detect protein leakage, an early sign of kidney damage.
Why they're used
Chronic kidney disease is often silent in early stages. The National Kidney Foundation recommends testing for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or a family history of kidney failure.
How to prepare
Usually no fasting. Avoid heavy exercise and large meat meals shortly before testing, as they can raise creatinine temporarily.
Questions people commonly ask
- Is eGFR enough on its own?
- eGFR plus a urine albumin test gives a fuller picture; your clinician decides which tests are needed.
Related biomarkers
Related tests
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Keep your health results in one place
What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.
Sources
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). National Kidney Foundation.
- Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Test. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- Creatinine Test. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.