Renal Function Test – Kidney Function Tests
The Urea and Electrolytes blood test, otherwise known as a kidney function test, is routinely used to monitor the body’s electrolyte balance and can also give a strong indication of renal function. It measures levels of a range of elements and molecules found in the blood, that are filtered out into the urine by the kidneys:
£64.00 – Results in 4-6 Hours
- Sodium (Na+)
- Potassium (K+)
- Chloride (Cl-)
- Bicarbonate (HCO3-)
Renal Function Tests are also included in many of our broader wellness profiles and screens.
Blood measurements of urea and creatinine area markers indicate shorter and longer–term renal function, respectively. Thus, if a kidney test demonstrates raised levels of urea in the blood, this could signify acute renal disease.
Levels of electrolytes in the blood need to be tightly controlled, since high levels potassium (hyperkalaemia) is a risk-factor for heart attacks.
This private kidney blood test is highly recommended annually for anyone with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease. These are all risk factors for the development of kidney disease – the poor, ineffective functioning of the kidneys. It’s important that each element measured is maintained within a healthy average range, as shown by the table below:
It’s also important as a monitoring tool for anyone taking long-term medications cleared by the kidneys (by glomerular filtration), to ensure that such medications are not causing renal damage. Common medications secernated (secreted) by the kidneys include:
- Thiazide diuretics
- Uric acid
- Blood pressure medications, including ACE-inhibitors