Kidney/Renal Function Tests (KFT/RFT)
Kidney/Renal Function Tests (KFT/RFT) are commonly used blood and urine investigations that help assess how effectively the kidneys filter waste and maintain the body’s fluid and chemical balance. Kidney disease may develop without obvious symptoms, making appropriate testing especially important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney problems.
What Does a KFT/RFT Check?
A kidney function test may include measurements such as serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), electrolytes and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Urine testing may also assess protein or albumin, which can provide important information about possible kidney damage.
Why Is a Kidney Function Test Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend KFT/RFT tests as part of a health check-up, when kidney disease is suspected, or to monitor an existing kidney condition. These tests can also help evaluate kidney function when certain medicines or medical conditions may affect the kidneys.
Understanding Your Results
An abnormal creatinine, eGFR, BUN, or urine albumin result does not necessarily establish a diagnosis on its own. Results are interpreted along with your medical history, symptoms, other investigations and, when appropriate, repeat testing.