What It Measures#
A Kidney Function Test (KFT), also called Renal Function Test (RFT), evaluates how effectively your kidneys filter waste from the blood. The panel includes:
- Serum Creatinine — a waste product from muscle metabolism; elevated levels suggest impaired kidney filtration.
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) / Urea — produced when the body breaks down protein; rises when kidneys cannot excrete it efficiently.
- eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) — calculated from creatinine, age, and gender; the single best indicator of kidney function.
- Uric Acid — elevated in gout, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease.
- Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride) — kidneys regulate electrolyte balance; imbalances signal kidney dysfunction.
- Calcium & Phosphorus — deranged in advanced kidney disease.
India has over 17 crore people at risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and most cases are detected late. Regular KFT screening can catch early, treatable stages.
Who Should Get Tested#
- People with diabetes or hypertension — the two leading causes of CKD in India.
- Anyone with a family history of kidney disease or kidney stones.
- Adults above 40 years as part of annual health checks.
- Patients on long-term NSAIDs, certain antibiotics, or contrast-dye exposure.
- People with swelling in the feet, reduced urine output, or blood in the urine.
How to Prepare#
- Fasting is generally not required, but your lab may recommend a 6–8 hour fast if BUN is included.
- Drink adequate water to stay hydrated.
- Avoid heavy protein meals (e.g., a large non-veg dinner) the night before, as they can temporarily raise BUN.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, especially NSAIDs and ACE inhibitors.
Understanding Your Results#
| Parameter | Normal Range | What Abnormal Means | |-----------|-------------|---------------------| | Serum Creatinine | M: 0.7–1.3 mg/dL; F: 0.6–1.1 mg/dL | High = reduced kidney filtration | | BUN / Urea | 7–20 mg/dL (BUN) | High = dehydration, kidney disease, high-protein diet | | eGFR | > 90 mL/min/1.73 m² | < 60 for 3+ months = chronic kidney disease | | Uric Acid | M: 3.4–7.0 mg/dL; F: 2.4–6.0 mg/dL | High = gout risk, kidney stones | | Potassium | 3.5–5.0 mEq/L | High = dangerous in CKD (cardiac risk) |
An eGFR below 60 sustained for three or more months indicates CKD. Early-stage CKD (stages 1–3) can often be managed with diet, blood-pressure control, and medication adjustments.
Related Tests#
- Urine Routine & Microscopy — detects protein or blood in urine early.
- HbA1c Test — diabetes control directly affects kidney health.
- CBC — anaemia is common in CKD.
- Liver Function Test — hepatorenal syndrome screening.
Booking & Home Collection#
Book a KFT on PingMeDoc with home sample collection available in 50+ Indian cities. Reports are delivered within 12–24 hours via your secure health dashboard.