NORMAL BUN AND CREATININE RANGE UPDATE

The inconvenience associated with the use of exogenous markers, specifically that the testing has to be performed in specialized centers, and the difficulty to assay these substances, has encouraged the use of endogenous markers. The most promising exogenous marker is the non-radioactive contrast agent, iohexol, especially in children. Other exogenous markers used are radioisotopes such as chromium-51 ethylene-diamine-tetra-acetic acid (51 Cr-EDTA), and technetium-99-labeled diethylene-triamine-pentaacetate (99 Tc-DTPA). It involves the infusion of inulin and then the measurement of blood levels after a specified period to determine the rate of clearance of inulin. Assessment of GFR using inulin, a polysaccharide, is considered the reference method for the estimation of GFR. It should not undergo extrarenal elimination.Īs no such endogenous marker currently exists, exogenous markers of GFR are used.

NORMAL BUN AND CREATININE RANGE UPDATE

This article provides an update on the relevant biochemical tests for the assessment of renal function.

Worldwide, the most common causes of CKD are hypertension and diabetes. According to the National Institutes of Health, the overall prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is approximately 14%. Tests of renal function have utility in identifying the presence of renal disease, monitoring the response of kidneys to treatment, and determining the progression of renal disease. Assessment of renal function is important in the management of patients with kidney disease or pathologies affecting renal function. The functional unit of the kidney is the nephron, which consists of the glomerulus, proximal and distal tubules, and collecting duct. The kidneys play a vital role in the excretion of waste products and toxins such as urea, creatinine and uric acid, regulation of extracellular fluid volume, serum osmolality and electrolyte concentrations, as well as the production of hormones like erythropoietin and 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D and renin.

Normal bun and creatinine range