Book Renal Function (RFT) Test
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- Lab Visit
TEST DESCRIPTION
Renal Function Test, also known as RFT, is a set of blood and urine tests that assess the overall function of the kidneys. These tests help diagnose and monitor various kidney conditions and their progression. The symptoms of an abnormal RFT are usually related to kidney dysfunction or underlying kidney diseases. It is also known as the Kidney Function Test
SYMPTOMS
High blood pressure
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Changes in urine output or appearance
Difficulty sleeping
Itchy skin
Muscle cramps
STEPS TO FOLLOW BEFORE THE TEST
Generally, you don’t need to do anything special prior to your test. You can eat and drink normally unless your healthcare provider tells you.
NORMAL RANGES
|
TEST |
RANGE |
UNITS |
|
Creatinine |
0.57 - 1.11 |
mg/dL |
|
Proteins (Total) |
6.4 - 8.3 |
gm/dL |
|
Albumin |
3.5 - 5.2 |
gm/dL |
|
Globulin |
2 - 4.1 |
gm/dL |
|
A/G Ratio |
1.0 - 2.1 |
|
|
Urea |
12.8 - 42.8 |
mg/dL |
|
Uric Acid |
2.6 - 6.0 |
mg/dL |
|
Electrolytes |
|
|
|
Sodium |
136 - 145 |
mmol/L |
|
Potassium |
3.5 - 5.1 |
mmol/L |
|
Chloride |
98 - 107 |
mmol/L |
*Reference range may vary depending on equipment used by labs. Consult your referring doctor for proper interpretation of test results.
SOME SAFETY ADVICE TO FOLLOW
Here are some tips for maintaining kidney health:
Eat a balanced diet.
Follow your treatment plan.
Stay hydrated.
Monitor blood pressure.
Control blood sugar levels.
Avoid harmful substances.
Exercise regularly.
Quit smoking.
Consult a nephrologist.
Attend regular check-ups.
SOME USEFUL INFORMATION
Understanding the importance of Renal Function Tests (RFT)
RFT is crucial for identifying kidney disease, monitoring kidney function, and planning treatment. It helps diagnose renal problems, monitor therapeutic management, and assess kidney function during transplants. The most common tests to assess renal function:
Urinalysis
Serum creatinine test
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test
Microalbuminuria test
When does the Doctor suggest this test?
Reasons for RFT: Doctors may recommend RFT if you show signs of kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, infections, or stones. It can also be used to monitor the effects of medications or assess kidney function in chronic kidney conditions.
Components of RFT: RFT typically includes tests for creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), electrolytes, and urine analysis. Creatinine and BUN are waste products that increase in the blood when kidney function is impaired. Electrolytes regulate fluid and acid-base balance, while urine analysis detects abnormalities like protein, blood, or infection.
Preparation: Depending on your doctor's instructions, you may need to fast before the test and avoid certain foods or medications that can impact the results. Staying hydrated by drinking water is important to produce enough urine for the test.
Test Procedure: RFT involves taking a blood sample from your arm and a urine sample from your bladder.
Interpreting The Results: The results of RFT assist doctors in diagnosing kidney problems, monitoring their progression, and determining suitable treatment plans. Normal ranges may vary, so discussing the results with your doctor is crucial for understanding their implications for your health.
ALIASES (Other names that describe the test. Synonyms.)
BUN (blood Urea Nitrogen)
Creatinine
clearance of creatinine
GFR, or glomerular filtration rate
Urinalysis
ORDERING RECOMMENDATION
Renal function tests are used to assess kidney health and may be ordered to diagnose kidney disease, monitor its progression, or assess the need for dialysis or transplantation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
[QUESTION] What is a Renal Function Test?
[ANSWER] It is a set of lab tests that assess kidney function and detect abnormalities.
[QUESTION] Why would my doctor recommend for RFT test?
[ANSWER] To evaluate kidney health, monitor chronic conditions, or assess medication impact.
[QUESTION] How do I prepare for the test?
[ANSWER] Follow fasting instructions, avoid certain foods or meds, and stay hydrated.
[QUESTION] What does the test involve?
[ANSWER] Providing a blood and urine sample for laboratory analysis.
[QUESTION] When will I get the results?
[ANSWER] Timing varies, consult your healthcare provider for an estimate.
[QUESTION] What do the results indicate?
[ANSWER] They show kidney function and potential abnormalities.
[QUESTION] Are there any risks while doing the test?
[ANSWER] Risks are minimal, with possible discomfort from the needle prick or can feel a bit dizzy.
[QUESTION] What are the anticipated developments in the identification and management of renal disease?
[ANSWER] Early identification and prevention of kidney disease are predicted to be the main focuses of future developments in renal disease diagnosis and therapy. It's also probable that research into novel renal failure therapies will continue.
[QUESTION] How often should I get my kidney function tested?
[ANSWER] The frequency of kidney function testing depends on the individual's risk factors for kidney disease. People who are at high risk for kidney disease, such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure, may need to get their kidney function tested more often than people who are at low risk.
COMPONENTS
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Component Test Code* |
Component Chart Name |
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