Tests to diagnose kidney diseases.
In the previous articles, we discussed the structure, function, and associated conditions
of the human kidney. Accordingly, in this article, we will present a simple description
of the basic tests used to diagnose such kidney diseases.
Usually, there are no symptoms present in the early stages of kidney disease.
Therefore, people at high risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, acute kidney disease,
cardiovascular disease and kidney stones should have their kidneys checked regularly.
In addition, people taking long-term medications that can affect the kidneys, such
as lithium, omeprazole, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), should
have their kidneys checked regularly.
In the early stages, a physical examination may be helpful, as the symptoms of kidney
disease may not be specific. Accordingly, a physical examination is a basic diagnostic
test for kidney diseases. Chest and abdominal examination may show swelling of the
abdomen or fluid in the lungs. A gentle blow to the back that causes pain can indicate a
blockage in the urinary tract. A gentle touch of the body can detect any abnormalities in
the chest and abdomen. Kidney enlargement can also be found.
Kidney diseases are usually diagnosed by blood and urine tests. There are other
ways. As blood tests include eGFR (estimated Glomerular filtration rate), serum
creatinine test, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test. Urine tests include UFR, Urine
Albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), Urine micro albumin, and 24 hours urine test.
Other tests include USS, MRI Scan, CT Scan and Renal Biopsy.
The main test for kidney disease is a blood test. Of these, eGFR is the main blood test
used to diagnose kidney disease. It means estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
This est identifies and classifies chronic kidney disease. These tests re This is done by
measuring the amount of creatinine in the blood, using a formula, and estimating the
function of the kidneys to get a mathematical number. results can be used to determine
the extent of damage to the kidneys, known as the CKD stage. Creatinine levels, age,
gender, and weight are used for this formula. eGFR results are given as a stage from 1 to 5.
Stage 1 (G1) - a normal eGFR above 90ml / min, (Other tests have detected signs of
kidney damage).
Stage 2 (G2) - a slightly reduced eGFR of 60 to 89ml / min.
Stage 3a (G3a) - an
eGFR of 45 to 59ml / min
Stage 3b (G3b) - an
eGFR of 30 to 44ml / min
Stage 4 (G4) - an eGFR
of 15 to 29ml / min
1.1 mg / dL in women. Excess serum means that the kidneys are not functioning at their
optimum level.
The blood urea nitrogen test (BUN Test) is another blood test to determine kidney
disease. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are based on a blood test that measures the
level of urea nitrogen in the blood. Urea nitrogen is a by-product of the breakdown of
proteins by the human body. BUN test results are measured in milligrams per deciliter
(mg / dL). Normal BUN levels are considered based on age and other possible health
conditions. The average level is around 7 - 20 mg / dL. An increase in the BUN level
means that the kidneys are not functioning well.
Not only blood tests but also urine tests are important in diagnosing kidney
diseases. A urine test is a test of a small amount of urine to check for kidney disease
and other health problems. When kidneys are damaged, they allow the protein to leak
into urine. This may be the first sign of kidney disease. Urine tests help measure kidney
function. Also to find out the stage of kidney disease. Urine tests can also be used to
diagnose health problems that can diseases, such as diabetes, to diagnose complications
from kidney diseases such as anemia and metabolic acidosis, and to check for other
problems such as kidney infection or tract infections (UTI).
The UACR test is a major urine test performed to diagnose kidney disease.
It means Urine albumin creatinine ratio. It is also known as the urine protein creatinine
ratio and microalbumin creatinine ratio. This test compares the levels of albumin and
creatinine in the urine. Although albumin is found in the blood, a small amount of albumin
(microalbumin) leaked into the urine when the kidneys are damaged. Creatinine is a waste
product of urine. UACR is a sensitive and specific measure of kidney damage. ACR results
1 to 3 can be obtained in three stages. That is
A1 – an ACR of less than 3mg/mmol
A2 – an ACR of 3 to 30mg/mmol
A3 – an ACR of more than 30mg/mmol.
UFR, 24-hour urine collection test and urine microalbumin test are performed
concurrently with this UACR test.
In addition to urine and blood tests, X-rays, USS, MRI scans, CT scans,
and kidney biopsies are other imaging tests that can be used to identify and evaluate any
damage that the kidneys.
X-rays :
X-ray films are mainly used in the initial assessment of kidney stones and in measuring
the size and shape of the kidneys.
Ultrasound scan (USS):
It helps to measure the size and appearance of the kidneys and to diagnose cancers,
injuries and obstructions. Modern technology called Color Doppler can be used to
detect clots, narrowing, or rupture of blood vessels in the kidneys.
Computer Tomography (CT):
It shows the cross section of the kidneys on the X-ray. CT scans are used to detect
cancer, lesions, obstructions, kidney stones, and fluid accumulation around the kidneys.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):
It produces high-contrast images using magnetic waves without radiation.
Gadolinium anti-dye is often needed for MRI. It can also be used to diagnose subtle
kidney diseases.
Renal Biopsy:
A kidney biopsy involves inserting a needle into the kidney through the abdomen and
taking a small tissue sample from the kidney and examining it with a microscope.
An accurate diagnosis of kidney disease is important for proper treatment. We hope
this article gives you a brief overview of the basics of diagnosing kidney disease.
Accordingly, we hope to discuss the various treatments used for kidney disease in future
articles.
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