What are Kidney Function Tests (KFT)?
Kidney Function Tests (KFT) are a set of diagnostic tests used to assess how well your kidneys are functioning. These tests measure various parameters such as waste materials, electrolytes, and proteins in blood and urine to assess overall kidney health.
Kidneys filter waste, balance electrolytes, and regulate fluid levels in the body. KFT is commonly prescribed for individuals with symptoms of kidney disease, those with a family history of kidney problems, or patients with conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure that may impact kidney function. Regular kidney function testing is crucial, as early detection of kidney issues can prevent complications and help manage underlying health conditions effectively.
What Symptoms Can Be Caused By Kidney Problems?
Kidney disease often progresses silently, but some symptoms indicate potential kidney dysfunction, including:
Swelling in hands, feet, or face due to fluid retention
Fatigue and weakness
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Frothy or foamy urine (indicating protein leakage)
High blood pressure
Nausea and loss of appetite
Itchy skin and dry patches
Shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation in the lungs
What Is The Purpose of Kidney Function Tests?
KFT helps in diagnosing kidney diseases at an early stage, monitoring kidney health in patients with chronic conditions, and assessing the impact of medications on kidney function. It also assists in evaluating kidney function before surgeries or medical procedures that may affect renal health. Kidney Function Tests are conducted for various reasons, including:
Early Detection of Kidney Disease:
Identifying kidney disease at an early stage allows for timely intervention and management.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions
People with diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease should undergo KFT regularly to monitor kidney health.
Assessing Medication Effects
Certain medications, especially pain relievers and antibiotics, can affect kidney function. KFT helps track any adverse effects.
Preoperative Evaluation
Before surgery, doctors may recommend KFT to ensure kidney health for safe anesthesia and recovery.
Evaluating Overall Health
Routine health checkups often include kidney function tests to ensure that the kidneys are working properly.
What are The Different Types of Kidney Function Tests (KFT)?
Several tests are used to evaluate kidney function. This chart provides a general reference where normal ranges may vary slightly based on the laboratory and individual health conditions:
KFT Test | Normal Range | Synopsis |
Serum Creatinine | 0.6 - 1.2 mg/dL (varies slightly by lab and gender) |
|
Uric Acid | 3.5 - 7.2 mg/dL (men), 2.6 - 6.0 mg/dL (women) |
|
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | 7 - 20 mg/dL |
|
Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Bicarbonate) | NA |
|
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) | 90 - 120 mL/min/1.73m² |
|
How to Prepare for KFT Tests?
Whether it’s for routine health monitoring or diagnosing potential kidney issues, proper preparation before KFT ensures are crucial for accurate results. Factors like diet, hydration, and medication can influence test outcomes, making it essential to follow medical guidelines before the test. Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns and ensure a smooth testing experience:
Fasting
Some KFT tests may require fasting for 8-12 hours.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
Medication Adjustments
Inform your doctor about any medications, as some drugs can influence test results.
Dietary Restrictions
Avoid consuming high-protein or high-purine foods before testing.
Procedure of Kidney Function Tests
The KFT procedure involves the following methods:
Urine Test After 24 Hours
A 24-hour urine collection measures creatinine clearance and protein levels.
Patients collect urine in a container over a full day to analyze waste excretion rates.
Blood Samples
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
The sample is sent to a laboratory to assess kidney-related parameters like creatinine, BUN, and electrolyte levels.
KFT Test Result: Comprehending Results
Interpreting the Kidney Function Test (KFT) results requires a doctor’s expertise to help you understand the severity of the condition. It also helps the patient consider the proper treatment plan. Here’s a general idea that can guide you with your KFT test results:
Normal Results
Indicate healthy kidney function.
Elevated Creatinine & BUN
May reveal kidney disease, dehydration, or high protein intake.
Low eGFR
Suggests reduced kidney function, potentially indicating chronic kidney disease.
Abnormal Electrolytes
Could indicate kidney dysfunction or other metabolic disorders.
Choose Artemis Hospitals For Comprehensive Kidney Diagnosis:
Kidney Function Tests (KFT) play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring kidney health. Regular testing is especially important for individuals with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection through KFT helps prevent severe complications and allows for timely treatment. If you experience symptoms of kidney problems, consult a healthcare professional for a KFT to ensure optimal kidney health.
To book an appointment with top Internal medicine doctors at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Article ByDr. Arpit JainHead – Internal Medicine
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions:
When should I get this KFT test?
You should get a KFT test if you experience symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, high blood pressure, fatigue, or changes in urine output. It is also recommended if you have diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease.
What are the benefits of the KFT test?
Benefits of KFT tests involve -
Early detection of kidney disease
Monitoring kidney function in chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
Assessing the impact of medications on kidney health
Preventing complications by enabling timely treatment
Is fasting required for a KFT blood test?
Fasting is not usually required for a KFT test, but your doctor may advise it in specific cases, especially if additional tests like blood sugar or lipid profile are being conducted.
What is a KFT LFT test?
A KFT-LFT test refers to a combined Kidney Function Test (KFT) and Liver Function Test (LFT), which assesses both kidney and liver health simultaneously.
What is the normal KFT level?
The normal reference ranges for KFT parameters are:
Serum Creatinine: 0.7–1.3 mg/dL (men), 0.6–1.1 mg/dL (women)
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): 7–20 mg/dL
Uric Acid: 3.5–7.2 mg/dL (men), 2.6–6.0 mg/dL (women)
Sodium: 135–145 mEq/L
Potassium: 3.5–5.1 mEq/L
What is the test for LFT and KFT?
LFT (Liver Function Test) and KFT (Kidney Function Test) are separate panels of blood tests used to evaluate liver and kidney health. Both are often prescribed together in cases of chronic diseases or general health check-ups.
Are kidney function tests risky?
No, KFT tests involve a simple blood draw and urine analysis, which involves mild pain or bruising at the site of the blood draw making them safe with minimal risks.
Is fasting required for a KFT?
No, fasting is generally not required for a KFT. However, your doctor may advise fasting if other tests are included.
Who Can Perform a Kidney Function Test (KFT)?
Kidney function tests can be performed by a pathologist or laboratory technician who conducts the test, while a nephrologist or general physician is a healthcare professional who interprets and analyzes the test reports.
Why might I need a kidney function test?
You may need a KFT if you:
Have high blood pressure or diabetes
Experience symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination
Take medications that affect kidney function
Have a family history of kidney disease
What if my test results show early kidney disease?
If your KFT results indicate early kidney disease, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, and further diagnostic tests to prevent progression.
When should I know the results of a kidney function test?
Most labs provide results within 24 to 48 hours. However, some specialized tests may take longer.
