There are dozens of different blood tests used in kidney disease. Many of them are grouped into test panels that are routinely obtained whether kidney disease is suspected or not. Others are specialty-ordered test specifically designed to diagnose or monitor kidney disease. Here are the most commonly ordered kidney-related blood tests.
- Sodium (Na): An electrolyte important in regulation of the body’s fluid volume and blood pressure was the normal functioning of the nervous system. An abnormal high or low value indicates a fluid problem.
- Potassium (K): An electrolyte important in normal functioning of muscles and the nervous system. An abnormally low value is often seen with certain medications or gastrointestinal problems. A high value is often seen with advanced kidney failure.
- Chloride (Cl): An electrolye usually found along with sodium. It is helpful in working up certain kidney disorders, particularlly a low bicaronate.
- Bicarbonate(HCO3): A molecule important in maintaining the body’s acid level or pH within a narrow region. An abnormal value indicates an acid-base disorder.
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): A molecule important in removing nitrogen or ammonia from the body. It is made in the liver and removed by the kidneys. An abnormally high value suggests kidney failure.
- Creatinine (Cr): Another molecule important in removing nitrogen from the body. It is made mainly in the muscles and removed by the kidneys. An abnormally high value suggests kidney failure.
- Calcium (Ca): An electrolyte important in the proper function of muscles and maintenance of healthy bones. An abnormal value can indicate a kidney or endocrine problem.
- Magnesium (Mg): An electrolye important in proper function of the heart, nervous, and gastrointestinal (GI) systems. A low value usually indicates malnutrition or a problem with the kidneys or GI tract.
- Phosphorus (PO3): An electrolyte important in the proper function of muscles and maintenance of healthy bones. An abnormal value can indicate a kidney or endocrine problem.
