Kidney Function Tests: Creatinine, GFR & Urine

Creatinine, GFR, proteinuria: decode kidney function tests. Complete guide to monitor and protect your kidney health.

Kidney Function Tests: Creatinine, GFR & Urine

8 min - BioSense Team - 2025-02-12

  • kidneys
  • creatinine
  • GFR
  • prevention

Kidney Function: Understanding Your Lab Tests

Note: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

Kidneys filter 180 liters of blood daily. Monitoring their function is crucial for health.

Essential Markers

### Serum Creatinine - Men: 0.7-1.3 mg/dL (62-115 μmol/L) - Women: 0.6-1.1 mg/dL (53-97 μmol/L) - Indicator: Glomerular filtration function

### GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) - Normal: > 90 mL/min/1.73m² - Mild insufficiency: 60-89 mL/min/1.73m² - Moderate insufficiency: 30-59 mL/min/1.73m² - Severe insufficiency: 15-29 mL/min/1.73m²

### Urea - Normal: 7-20 mg/dL (2.5-7.5 mmol/L) - Elevation factors: Dehydration, high-protein diet

### Urine Analysis - Proteinuria: < 150 mg/24h - Microalbuminuria: 30-300 mg/24h (early screening) - Hematuria: Blood detection

Risk Factors

  1. Diabetes: Leading cause of kidney failure
  2. Hypertension: Second leading cause
  3. Age: Natural decline after 40
  4. Nephrotoxic medications: NSAIDs, certain antibiotics
  5. Family history

Prevention and Advice

  • Hydration: 1.5-2L water daily
  • Glucose control: HbA1c < 7%
  • Blood pressure: < 130/80 mmHg
  • Reduce salt: < 6g/day
  • Avoid NSAIDs: Long-term use

Related Articles

See also: GFR and Creatinine, HbA1c, Blood Pressure.

*Information based on WHO and Mayo Clinic recommendations*