Lab Tests for Kidney Disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is silent in its early stages — many people have lost significant kidney function before symptoms appear. Blood and urine tests detect it early, track progression, and guide treatment to slow the decline.
Clinical overview
The kidneys filter 180 litres of blood per day. When they're damaged, waste products accumulate and electrolyte balance is disrupted. eGFR is the key measure — below 60 mL/min for 3+ months defines CKD. Urine albumin reveals damage to the filtration barrier even before eGFR falls.
Primary tests ordered for Kidney Disease (CKD)
These are the tests most commonly ordered first when kidney disease (ckd) is suspected or being monitored.
Kidney Function Tests (eGFR & Creatinine)
Your eGFR came back at 58 and you're worried about kidney disease. Before assuming the worst — eGFR…
Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
Your Basic Metabolic Panel is a snapshot of your body's chemical balance — electrolytes, kidney function, and blood…
Urinalysis (Urine Dipstick & Microscopy)
A urine dipstick test reports 10 or more results in seconds. Each line tells a different story about…
What to expect
- 🌅 Morning urine (first void) gives the most accurate ACR result.
- ⏰ Blood tests for kidney function require no fasting.
- 💊 Some medications (NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, aminoglycosides) affect results — mention all medications.
- 📊 eGFR and ACR together define CKD stage more accurately than eGFR alone.
- 🔄 CKD diagnosis requires two tests at least 3 months apart.
Testing frequency
Also commonly ordered
These tests are frequently added to the primary panel based on initial results or specific clinical circumstances.
Urine ACR (Albumin:Creatinine)
The most sensitive early marker of kidney damage — detects proteinuria before dipstick.
Cystatin C
More accurate than creatinine for estimating GFR, especially in muscle wasting or obesity.
Uric Acid
Elevated in CKD. Gout is common. Uric acid-lowering therapy protects kidney function.
Phosphorus
Rises as CKD advances — secondary hyperparathyroidism and vascular calcification risk.
CBC
CKD causes anaemia (reduced EPO). Haemoglobin falls as eGFR declines.
PTH
Parathyroid hormone rises in CKD — secondary hyperparathyroidism damages bones and vessels.
Urgent result thresholds
These result patterns require prompt clinical attention — always discuss with your doctor rather than interpreting alone.
Kidney failure (stage 5 CKD). Renal replacement therapy planning — dialysis or transplant.
Severe hyperkalaemia — cardiac arrhythmia risk. Emergency management required.
Rapidly progressive CKD — nephrology referral needed urgently.
Severe proteinuria (macroalbuminuria) — significant CKD progression risk.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational reference only. It does not constitute medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always discuss your test results with your doctor. Full disclaimer →