MetabolicNephrology

Basic Kidney Profile

Normal Range
Creatinine: 0.7-1.3 (M), 0.6-1.1 (F) mg/dL; BUN: 7-20 mg/dL
Sample Type
Serum
Fasting
Required
Unit
mg/dL

Function

The Basic Kidney Profile (often referred to as Renal Function Test) measures key electrolytes and waste products filtered by the kidneys, specifically Creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN). It assesses the Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), which is the gold standard for determining how well the kidneys are cleaning the blood.

Why it is Ordered

This profile is used for routine screening, monitoring patients with known kidney disease, or checking the side effects of medications that can be toxic to the kidneys (like NSAIDs or certain antibiotics). It is also vital for patients with diabetes or hypertension, as these are leading causes of kidney failure.

Associated Conditions

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Gradual loss of function.
  • Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Rapid decline in filtration.
  • Dehydration: Causes a disproportionate rise in BUN compared to creatinine.
  • Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units.

Panel Components

This test is a profile comprising the following specific markers:

Chloride
mmol/L
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
mg/dL
Creatinine
mg/dL
Potassium
mmol/L
eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)
mL/min/1.73m²
Calcium
mg/dL
Sodium
mmol/L
Carbon Dioxide (Bicarbonate)
mmol/L

Why Context Matters

Creatinine levels are dependent on muscle mass; a very muscular athlete may have 'high' creatinine that is actually normal for them, while a frail elderly person may have 'normal' levels that mask significant kidney impairment. Additionally, a high-protein meal or intense exercise 24 hours before the test can cause temporary spikes.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Basic Kidney Profile:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

Lipid Profile

View Range

Urine Bicarbonate

View Range

Albumin

View Range
DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

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