Kidney Function Test: Creatinine & eGFR

When to consider this test

• If you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent fatigue, swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, changes in your urination patterns, or unexplained headaches.
• If you have been diagnosed with chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, for routine monitoring of your kidney health.
• As part of your annual physical or general wellness screening, especially if you are concerned about your kidney health or have risk factors for kidney disease.
• If your doctor suspects a kidney problem or needs to assess the function of your kidneys due to medication use, exposure to certain substances, or other health concerns.

Who benefits from this test

• Individuals with a family history of kidney disease or those with pre-existing kidney conditions.
• Those managing chronic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, which can significantly impact kidney function.
• People who are taking medications known to affect kidney health, for ongoing monitoring of potential side effects.
• Anyone experiencing symptoms that might indicate kidney issues, or as part of a general health and wellness check-up to assess overall kidney function.
• Individuals with conditions that affect muscle mass or muscle breakdown, as creatinine levels are influenced by muscle activity.

Commonly used for diagnosis of

This test is commonly used to diagnose and monitor a variety of kidney-related conditions, including:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Early detection of impaired kidney function, allowing for timely intervention and management to slow disease progression.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Rapid assessment of sudden kidney damage caused by factors such as severe infection, dehydration, or certain medications.
• Diabetes and Hypertension: Monitoring kidney health in individuals with these conditions, as they are leading causes of kidney disease.
• Glomerulonephritis and Nephrotic Syndrome: Evaluating inflammation and damage to the kidney's filtering units.
• Urinary Tract Obstruction: Assessing kidney function when there's a blockage in the urine flow.
• Medication Monitoring: Tracking kidney function in patients taking drugs that can be nephrotoxic (harmful to kidneys).
• Pre-Surgical Assessment: Ensuring healthy kidney function before administering anesthesia or undergoing procedures that might affect the kidneys.

Important caution

It is crucial to discuss your test results with a healthcare provider. Abnormal creatinine or eGFR levels can indicate a range of underlying conditions, and your doctor can help interpret the results in the context of your overall health, medical history, and other test findings. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat based solely on these results.