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RFT

Renal Function Test (RFT) 

A Renal Function Test (RFT) helps assess how well your kidneys are working. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating electrolytes in your body. Abnormal RFT results may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or other health conditions.


1. General Interpretation of RFT Results

1.1 What Is an RFT?

An RFT is a group of blood and urine tests that check kidney function by measuring waste products, electrolytes, and other indicators. Doctors use these tests to diagnose kidney diseases, monitor existing conditions, or evaluate the effect of medications on kidney health.

1.2 Key Components of an RFT

Parameter

Normal Range

High Levels Indicate

Low Levels Indicate

Serum Creatinine

0.6 - 1.2 mg/dL

Kidney disease, dehydration, muscle breakdown

Low muscle mass, liver disease

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

7 - 20 mg/dL

Kidney dysfunction, high protein intake

Liver disease, malnutrition

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

>90 mL/min

Healthy kidneys

<60 suggests kidney disease

Serum Potassium (K⁺)

3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L

Kidney failure, acidosis

Excessive loss due to vomiting/diarrhea

Serum Sodium (Na⁺)

135 - 145 mEq/L

Dehydration, heart failure

Kidney disease, overhydration

Urine Protein (Proteinuria/Albuminuria)

None - Trace

Kidney damage (diabetes, hypertension)

Normal

1.3 Example Interpretation

  • Example 1: A patient has a serum creatinine of 2.5 mg/dL and GFR of 40 mL/min.
    • Interpretation: This suggests moderate kidney disease, possibly due to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or dehydration. Further tests and lifestyle changes are needed.
  • Example 2: A patient has BUN of 35 mg/dL but normal creatinine.
    • Interpretation: This could be dehydration, high protein intake, or early kidney dysfunction. Increasing fluid intake and retesting may be advised.

2. Interpreting RFT Results in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

2.1 What Is CKD?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Early detection helps slow progression and prevents complications.

2.2 RFT Indicators for CKD

  1. GFR Decline:

    • Mild CKD: GFR 60-89 mL/min
    • Moderate CKD: GFR 30-59 mL/min
    • Severe CKD: GFR 15-29 mL/min
    • Kidney Failure: GFR <15 mL/min (Dialysis needed)

  2. Elevated Creatinine and BUN:

    • High levels indicate reduced filtration by the kidneys.

  3. Proteinuria (Protein in Urine):

    • Persistent proteinuria is a sign of kidney damage, common in diabetes and hypertension.

2.3 Example Interpretation

  • Example 3: A 65-year-old diabetic patient has a GFR of 45 mL/min, creatinine of 1.8 mg/dL, and protein in urine.
    • Interpretation: Moderate CKD (Stage 3) due to diabetic kidney disease. They should control blood sugar, take kidney-protective medicines (like ACE inhibitors), and follow a kidney-friendly diet.
  • Example 4: A patient has GFR 20 mL/min and severe swelling (edema).
    • Interpretation: Severe CKD (Stage 4), possibly requiring dialysis or transplant planning.

Stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) 


3. Interpreting RFT Results in Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

3.1 What Is AKI?

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a sudden decline in kidney function, often reversible if treated promptly.

3.2 RFT Indicators for AKI

  1. Rapid rise in Creatinine (>0.3 mg/dL within 48 hours)
  2. High BUN-to-Creatinine Ratio (>20:1)
    • Suggests dehydration or shock-related AKI
  3. Electrolyte Imbalances
    • Hyperkalemia (K⁺ >5.5 mEq/L) can cause dangerous heart rhythms
    • Metabolic acidosis (low bicarbonate HCO₃⁻) indicates kidney dysfunction

3.3 Example Interpretation

  • Example 5: A 45-year-old man with severe vomiting and diarrhea has BUN 50 mg/dL, creatinine 1.2 mg/dL, and a BUN/Creatinine ratio >20:1.
    • Interpretation: Pre-renal AKI (due to dehydration). IV fluids and electrolyte correction can restore kidney function.
  • Example 6: A 70-year-old woman on painkillers (NSAIDs) has creatinine 3.2 mg/dL and urine output <400 mL/day.
    • Interpretation: Drug-induced AKI from NSAIDs. Stopping the medication and starting hydration therapy is essential.

4. Electrolyte Imbalances in Kidney Disease

4.1 Common Electrolyte Abnormalities

Electrolyte

High Levels (Causes)

Low Levels (Causes)

Potassium (K⁺)

Kidney failure, tissue damage

Vomiting, diuretics

Sodium (Na⁺)

Dehydration, Cushing’s syndrome

Kidney disease, overhydration

Calcium (Ca²⁺)

Hyperparathyroidism

CKD, vitamin D deficiency

Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻)

Metabolic alkalosis

Metabolic acidosis (kidney failure)

4.2 Example Interpretation

  • Example 7: A patient with kidney failure has potassium 6.2 mEq/L and bicarbonate 15 mEq/L.
    • Interpretation: Dangerous hyperkalemia and acidosis, requiring emergency treatment with dialysis or medications.

Final Thoughts

When to See a Doctor?

  • GFR <60 mL/min or Creatinine >1.5 mg/dL consistently
  • High potassium, protein in urine, or abnormal sodium levels
  • Symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or reduced urination
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