Renal Profile/Renal Function Test (RFT/KFT)

A renal (kidney) panel, also known as kidney profile or Kidney Function Test (KFT), is a group of tests that help to  determine the health of the kidneys by evaluating various parameters such as proteins, electrolytes, and minerals. Kidneys not only flush out waste and toxins from our body through urine but also aid in the production of vitamin D, red blood cells and blood pressure-regulating hormones. Therefore, keeping your kidneys healthy should be a primary aim and this is where a Kidney function Test comes in handy.

Apollo 24|7’s KFT test is specially designed to ascertain how well the kidneys are functioning, and if there are any abnormalities that need immediate attention. Blood urea nitrogen, Serum urea , Serum creatinine, Serum sodium, Serum potassium, and Serum uric acid are some of the parameters that the Kidney Function Test determines.

Why should you get a RFT test or KFT test done?  

• As a routine check-up 
• For the early screening of kidney disease in people suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes 
• To diagnose intrinsic kidney problems or diseases
• To monitor the treatment of kidney disease

Medically reviewed by Dr Shakti, General Physician/Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi

Frequently asked questions

How is the blood sample taken?

To take the blood sample, a tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is asked to make a fist. This helps in the buildup of blood filling the veins and it becomes easy to collect the blood. The skin is cleaned before inserting the needle in the vein in order to prevent bacteria from entering. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the arm and the blood sample is collected in the vacutainer.

What are the signs and symptoms of kidney disease?

The signs and symptoms of kidney dysfunction include fatigue, lack of concentration, poor appetite, difficulty in sleeping, swelling or puffiness around the eyes or in the face, wrists, abdomen, thighs, or ankles; foamy, bloody, or coffee-colored urine, decrease in the amount of urine, burning sensation while urinating, abnormal discharge during urination, or a change in the frequency of urination, especially at night; pain in mid-back, below the ribs, near the location of kidneys, and high blood pressure.

What other tests can be used to assess kidney function?

The other tests which can be used to assess kidney function include Urinalysis, Urine protein, and Creatinine clearance.

Which symptoms indicate the presence of kidney stones?

The symptoms which indicate the presence of kidney stones include pain in the lower back, side, abdomen, or groin; nausea, increased urge to urinate, discomfort and pain while urinating, presence of blood in urine, and foul-smelling urine.

What risk factors are associated with high levels of uric acid?

The risk factors associated with high levels of uric acid include alcohol intake, medicines used to treat heart diseases, exposure to lead, pesticides; kidney disease, high blood pressure, high blood glucose levels, hypothyroidism, obesity, and extreme levels of physical activity.

Which conditions can cause an increase in levels of creatinine?

The conditions which can cause an increase in levels of creatinine include damage or swelling of blood vessels in the kidneys caused due to infection or autoimmune diseases, bacterial infection of the kidneys, death of cells in the kidneys, conditions that can block the flow of urine in urinary tract like kidney stone or prostate disease, and reduced blood flow to the kidney which can be due to shock, congestive heart failure, dehydration, atherosclerosis, or complications of diabetes.

What is hyponatremia and hypernatremia?

Low levels of sodium are known as hyponatremia and high levels of sodium are known as hypernatremia.

What is hypokalemia and hyperkalemia?

Low levels of potassium are known as hypokalemia and high levels of potassium are known as hyperkalemia.

Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medicines?

Yes, please inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.