Which test is commonly used to measure kidney function in patients?

The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a commonly used test to assess kidney function. It provides an estimate of how well the kidneys are filtering blood, specifically measuring the rate at which blood is filtered through the glomeruli – the tiny filters in the kidneys. An eGFR is vital for determining stage of kidney disease, guiding treatment options, and monitoring kidney function over time.

The eGFR calculation typically uses serum creatinine levels, age, sex, and sometimes race to give a more accurate picture of kidney performance compared to just using serum creatinine alone. A decline in eGFR can indicate impaired kidney function or kidney disease, making it an essential tool in both clinical practice and patient management.

In contrast, while blood urea nitrogen (BUN) can indicate kidney function, it is not as comprehensive as the eGFR since it can be affected by other factors like hydration status and dietary protein intake. The complete blood count (CBC) focuses on blood cells and does not assess kidney function at all, and liver function tests (LFT) evaluate liver health, not the kidneys. Thus, eGFR stands out as a reliable and specific measure for assessing kidney function in patients.