A KFT test, or Kidney Function Test, assesses how well your kidneys are working. It's crucial for detecting kidney problems early, often before symptoms appear. These tests help determine how efficiently your kidneys filter waste products from your blood.
How KFT Tests Work
KFTs typically involve blood and/or urine samples. The tests analyze various components to evaluate kidney function. Examples include:
- Blood tests: These often measure creatinine and eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate). Creatinine is a waste product; high levels indicate impaired kidney function. eGFR estimates how much blood your kidneys filter each minute. A low eGFR suggests reduced kidney function.
- Urine tests: These can check for protein (uACR - urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio), indicating potential kidney damage. A 24-hour urine collection may also be necessary to measure creatinine clearance, another indicator of kidney function.
The specific tests used depend on individual needs and suspected conditions. Results usually are available within a few days.
Why are KFTs Important?
Early detection of kidney problems is vital. Kidney disease often progresses silently, leading to irreversible damage if left untreated. Regular KFTs, especially for those at high risk (diabetes, high blood pressure, family history), are essential for early diagnosis and management.
Types of KFTs and what they measure:
- eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate): A blood test that estimates how much blood your kidneys filter each minute. A low eGFR signifies reduced kidney function.
- Creatinine: A blood test measuring waste product levels. High levels suggest poor kidney function.
- Creatinine-urine: A urine test measuring creatinine excretion to further assess kidney filtration.
- uACR (urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio): A urine test that screens for protein in the urine, an indicator of kidney damage.
The information provided from the references confirms that KFTs are crucial for assessing kidney health, typically involving blood and urine tests to measure various indicators of kidney function and potential damage. Early detection, facilitated by these tests, is key to managing kidney disease effectively.
