Renal function tests: A clinical laboratory perspective

Abstract

Worldwide, chronic kidney disease has become a public health problem with increasing prevalence and high cost for treatment and prevention. It is projected that by 2030 there will be about 2 million patients needing dialysis and transplantation. Kidneys perform vital functions in the homeostatic processes of the human body including the filtration of blood, maintenance of acid base, water and electrolyte balance, regulation of hormone levels, and removal of waste products and unwanted substances from plasma. Various hormones that have metabolic and physiological functions such as erythropoietin, the prostaglandins, and so forth, are produced by the kidneys. Several diseases, such as acute nephrotic syndrome, acute glomerulonephritis, and others, can singly or in combination precipitate renal diseases. Various clinical laboratory tests are useful in the investigation and evaluation of kidney function. Different treatment options available for the management and prevention of renal disease complications include dialysis and transplantation.