Renal Function Tests: Importance and Assessment

Functions of the Kidneys

• Kidneys filter blood to remove waste products and excess substances, maintaining homeostasis.
• Regulation of blood pressure by balancing fluid volume and releasing renin.

Hormone Produced by the Kidneys

• Kidneys produce erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow, enhancing oxygen delivery throughout the body.

Indicators for Assessing Renal Function

• Serum creatinine levels indicate kidney's ability to filter waste.
• Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimates kidney function based on creatinine clearance.
• Urinalysis provides insights into proteinuria and hematuria, signaling potential kidney issues.

Function of 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol

• 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol, the active form of vitamin D, promotes calcium and phosphate absorption in the intestines, essential for bone health.

Reasons to Monitor Renal Function

• Monitoring renal function is crucial for detecting early kidney disease, guiding treatment, and assessing the impact of medications on kidney health.
• Important for managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension that can affect kidney function.

Learn about the significance of renal function tests in assessing kidney health, detecting impairment, monitoring progression, treatment response, and drug safety. Understand when renal function should be assessed based on risk factors and medical conditions.