Guide · 7 min read
Kidney Function Tests Explained for Indian Patients
What creatinine, eGFR, urea and urine protein tests measure, and how to read the results with your doctor.
Kidney function tests are quick, inexpensive blood and urine checks that reveal how well your kidneys are filtering. They are the first step in catching kidney problems early.
The core tests
- ✓Serum creatinine — a muscle waste product that rises when filtering slows
- ✓eGFR — an estimate of filtering rate, calculated from creatinine
- ✓Urea (BUN) — another waste marker
- ✓Urine albumin — protein leaking into urine, an early sign of damage
One number is not a diagnosis
Dehydration, diet, heavy exercise and some medicines can nudge results up or down. Your doctor looks at the trend over time, not a single reading.
Who should test regularly
Anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or recurring stones should have kidney function checked at least once a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal creatinine level?
Roughly 0.6–1.2 mg/dL for most adults, but it varies with muscle mass, age and sex — which is why eGFR is more useful.
Do I need to fast for a kidney function test?
Usually not, but follow your centre's instructions — some ask for fasting with a combined panel.
Sources
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This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific condition.