Nephrology is a field of medicine that focuses on the organs, structures, and diseases related to the kidneys. As such, there are many diagnostic tests available to detect various kidney issues. This blog article will provide an overview of some common diagnostic tests needed in nephrology.
Urinalysis
The first type of test is a urinalysis. A urinalysis measures the concentration of certain substances in the urine, such as proteins or sugar. It can also detect bacteria or other abnormal cells present in the urine. Additionally, it can help detect kidney stones or tumors.
Creatine Levels
The second type of test is a blood test known as a creatinine level test. This test measures the amount of creatinine in the blood, which can be an indication of kidney function. If elevated levels are found, it could possibly be an indication that there is poor renal function.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Another blood test that may be performed when assessing kidney function is a BUN (blood urea nitrogen) level checkup. This measure checks for nitrogenous wastes in the bloodstream and can indicate kidney disease or infection if elevated levels are present.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan may also be used to diagnose any potential renal issues or complications. Ultrasonography uses sound waves to create images inside the body that allow doctors to examine structures within the renal system more closely and accurately than just using external physical exams alone.
Tissue Biopsy
A biopsy may also be conducted when trying to determine whether there are any abnormalities within the kidneys themselves. During this procedure, doctors will take small samples from either one or both kidneys and scan them for signs of damage such as inflammation or tumors.
Urine Albumin
Diabetic patients should also receive regular screenings for albuminuria, which is an abnormal presence of protein in urine caused by damaged glomeruli (tiny filters in your kidneys). Albuminuria indicates an increased risk for further kidney problems which could lead to end-stage renal failure if left untreated over time via diabetes-related damage to your kidneys.
Imaging Scans
Finally, it’s important to note that there are a variety of other tests which can be used to diagnose and evaluate kidney health. Routine blood and urine tests will help doctors determine if you have any underlying conditions or diseases related to the kidneys.
Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans may be necessary when looking for certain tumors or cysts in the kidneys. And if needed, a biopsy may also be performed to get further information about potential issues with the kidneys themselves.
Conclusion
Some of these tests may not always be necessary for each patient depending on their medical history, but all of them should be considered when assessing one’s overall kidney health. Diagnosing any potential kidney issues is instrumental in preventing any further complications from occurring, so consulting with your doctor regularly is important in maintaining healthy renal function.
Did your Doctor order a set of tests, suspecting that you may have some kind of kidney disease? Follow up with one of our Board-certified specialists who may be able to guide you in the next step of your care. Click here to visit our clinic page to know more.
BLOG AUTHOR
Dr. Ismail Sayeed
Dr. Sayeed is the Medical Director of ViOS, Inc. He is a deeply committed physician entrepreneur & medical blog writer. While building the global infrastructure of the VIOS Clinic, he is dedicated to educate people on the potential of specialist telemedicine for managing chronic diseases.
Read more about him in his author bio