What is a Renal Function Test (RFT)?

A Renal Function Test (RFT) is a group of blood and urine tests used to check how well your kidneys are working.

Kidneys filter waste, balance fluids, control electrolytes, and help regulate blood pressure.

Tests Included in RFT

Common parameters tested:

Blood Tests

• Serum Creatinine
• Blood Urea / Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
• Uric Acid
• Electrolytes
• Sodium (Na⁺)
• Potassium (K⁺)
• Chloride (Cl⁻)
• Estimated GFR (eGFR)

Urine Tests (sometimes included)

• Urine Creatinine
• Urine Protein / Albumin
• Urine Routine Examination

 Observations (What Results Indicate)

High Creatinine / Urea

• Kidney damage
• Dehydration
• Urinary blockage
• Severe infection

Low eGFR

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

High Potassium

• Kidney failure
• Risk of heart rhythm problems ⚠️

Protein in Urine

• Early kidney damage
• Diabetes-related kidney disease

When RFT test Recomanded?

RFT is done to:

• Check kidney health
• Diagnose kidney disease
• Monitor diabetes, high BP
• Assess impact of long-term medicines
• Monitor patients on dialysis
• Before surgery or contrast scans

What is Purpose of Renal Function Test

• Detect kidney disease early
• Track progression of kidney problems
• Monitor treatment effectiveness
• Prevent complications like:
• Fluid overload
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Heart issues

Preparation for RFT

✅ Before the Test

• Usually no fasting required
• Drink normal amount of water
• Inform doctor about:
• BP medicines
• Painkillers
• Diabetes drugs
• Avoid heavy exercise 24 hrs before test

❌ Avoid

• Alcohol (24 hrs before)
• Excess protein intake before test
• Dehydration

Who Should Get RFT Regularly?

• Diabetic patients
• BP patients
• Elderly people
• Patients on long-term medication
• Family history of kidney disease