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How to interpret Kidney function in your labs?

Writer: K Patel, MD, MPHK Patel, MD, MPH

Kidneys are bean shaped organs sitting in the abdomen. Human body has two kidneys. Kidneys are important to remove the waste products and maintain water- electrolyte balance. They also play vital role in maintaining blood pressure, producing red blood cells and releasing vitamin D in our body.


Image Source: Wix Library


Kidney function test is part of the routine metabolic lab panels.


What is Kidney function test?


Kidney function test consists of BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen), Cr (Creatinine) & eGFR (estimated Glomerular filtration rate)


Normal Kidney function test range: (may vary among various labs)


  • Creatinine – 0.72 to 1.25 mg/dL

  • BUN – 6 to 20 mg/dL

  • eGFR - > 60 mL/min/1.73M2


What are the common causes of abnormal Kidney function or Kidney failure?

  • Dehydration

  • Chronic conditions like Diabetes, Hypertension, Heart disease, Liver disease

  • Blockage of arteries supplying kidneys

  • Kidney infection

  • Kidney stones

  • Medications like Ibuprofen, naproxen (NSAIDs), certain antibiotics

  • Toxins like alcohol, cocaine, heavy metals, cannabis (SPICE, K2)

  • Autoimmune conditions like lupus, nephritis, scleroderma

  • Cancers like kidney cancer, multiple myeloma and other surrounding organ cancers


This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or re-distributed. This material is informational and does not provide any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.


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