Essential Kidney Function Tests in Nigeria: Essential for Early Detection
Kidney function tests are critical diagnostic tools used to assess the health and performance of the kidneys. In Nigeria, where kidney diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent due to rising cases of diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors, these tests are vital for early detection, monitoring, and management of renal conditions. Types of Kidney Function Tests Several key tests are commonly used to evaluate kidney function in Nigeria: 1. Serum Creatinine Test: This test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle metabolism, and elevated levels can indicate impaired kidney function. 2. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test: This test measures the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from urea, a waste product of protein metabolism. High BUN levels can suggest that the kidneys are not filtering waste effectively. 3. Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): GFR is a calculated value based on serum creatinine,