A kidney function test, also known as a KFT or renal function test, is a set of blood tests that are used to evaluate the overall function of the kidneys. The KFT test measures the levels of several key substances in the blood, including urea, creatinine, BUN, uric acid, and the BUN-to-creatinine and urea-to-creatinine ratios. Urea and creatinine are waste products that are filtered out of the blood by the kidneys, while BUN measures the level of urea nitrogen in the blood. Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of purines, which are found in many foods. The BUN-to-creatinine and urea-to-creatinine ratios are used to assess the balance between the production and elimination of waste products by the kidneys. Elevated levels of these substances can indicate a potential kidney dysfunction or damage, and further diagnostic testing may be necessary.
