Kidney Disease

Kidney disease (chronic kidney disease, or CKD) means your kidneys aren’t filtering blood as well as they should. It often develops quietly and is most common in people with diabeteshigh blood pressureheart disease, a family history of kidney problems, or past urinary tract or autoimmune issues.

A proactive testing plan uses blood and urine tests together: eGFR from creatinine (and sometimes cystatin?C) to estimate kidney function, plus urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) and urinalysis to check for kidney damage. Add electrolytesacid–basecalcium/phosphorusparathyroid hormone (PTH), and anemia/iron labs to track CKD complications. Testing supports screeningdiagnosisstaging, and monitoring, but it does not replace a clinician’s exam or imaging when needed.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Often silent early: no symptoms; abnormal labs on a routine exam

  • Urinary findings: foamy urine (protein/albumin), blood in urine, frequent nighttime urination

  • Whole-body: swelling of legs/ankles, fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, itchy skin, high blood pressure

  • Risk contexts: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, family history of kidney failure, recurrent UTIs or stones, autoimmune disease, certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs)

  • Seek urgent care now: severe shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, little or no urine, or rapidly worsening swelling

Symptoms and risks should be reviewed with a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Detect CKD early (before symptoms) and stage severity using eGFR and albuminuria

  • Differentiate causes (e.g., diabetic kidney disease vs. glomerular disease) with ACRurinalysis, and targeted serologies

  • Monitor complications—electrolytes, acid–base status, bone-mineral markers (calcium/phosphorus/PTH), and anemia/iron indices

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose the exact cause in every case—some conditions need imaging, serology, or biopsy

  • Replace blood-pressure control, diabetes management, or medication review

  • Provide treatment or dosing advice—discuss results with your clinician

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Creatinine & eGFR: core measure of kidney filtration. eGFR <60 for ≥3 months suggests CKD; trends matter more than one value.

  • Cystatin?C (± eGFRcys): confirms or refines eGFR when creatinine is borderline or muscle mass is unusual; helpful when eGFR 45–59 with minimal albuminuria.

  • Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR): detects albumin leakage (A1 <30, A2 30–299, A3 ≥300?mg/g). Repeat to confirm persistence.

  • Urinalysis with Microscopy: blood, protein, glucose, casts (e.g., RBC casts suggest glomerular disease), crystals (stones).

  • Electrolytes & Acid–Base: potassiumsodiumbicarbonate (CO2); low bicarbonate signals metabolic acidosis.

  • Urea Nitrogen (BUN): rises with reduced kidney function or high catabolic states; interpret with creatinine and hydration.

  • Calcium, Phosphorus, Intact PTH, 25-OH Vitamin D: assess CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD).

  • Anemia & Iron Studies: hemoglobin/hematocritferritiniron/TIBCtransferrin saturation—anemia is common in CKD.

  • Glucose & A1c; Lipid Panel; Uric Acid: cardiometabolic context and gout/stone risk.

  • Etiology work-ups (as directed): ANA, complements (C3/C4), ANCA, anti-GBMhepatitis B/CSPEP/free light chains for paraprotein disease.

Quick Build Guide

Clinical goal Start with Add if needed
CKD screening (diabetes, HTN, CVD, family history) Creatinine/eGFR • Urine ACR • Urinalysis Cystatin?C if eGFR borderline; A1c • Lipid panel
Confirming CKD & staging Repeat eGFR (3+ months) • Repeat ACR Cystatin?C eGFR to confirm; electrolytes • CO2
Monitoring progression eGFR • ACR • BP checks Electrolytes • CO2 • CMP every 3–12 months per risk
Complication check (CKD-MBD, anemia) Calcium • Phosphorus • Intact PTH • 25-OH Vit D • CBC Iron/TIBC • Ferritin • Transferrin saturation
Glomerular disease suspected (proteinuria, hematuria, casts) Urinalysis • ACR • eGFR ANA • C3/C4 • ANCA • anti-GBM • Hep B/C • SPEP
Stones/obstruction context Urinalysis (crystals, pH) • Creatinine/eGFR Uric acid • 24-hr stone profile(recurrent stones)
AKI vs. CKD question eGFR • BUN/Cr • UA Cystatin?C • Ultrasound (clinical) • trend labs over time

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Select your starting set: most people begin with creatinine/eGFRurine ACR, and urinalysis.

  2. Provide samples: clean-catch urine and a standard blood draw; fasting is usually not needed unless lipids/glucose are included.

  3. Confirm persistence: repeat eGFR/ACR over ≥3 months to determine CKD vs. temporary changes.

  4. Broaden if needed: add cystatin?C, electrolytes/CO2, bone-mineral and anemia labs, or targeted serologies based on findings.

  5. Review & plan: discuss results with your clinician; imaging or referral to nephrology may be recommended.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • eGFR: normal is generally ≥90. <60 for ≥3 months supports CKD; falling trends signal progression.

  • ACR: A1 (<30?mg/g) normal to mildly increased; A2 (30–299) moderately increased; A3 (≥300) severely increased—higher categories raise risk at any eGFR.

  • Urinalysis: RBC casts/dysmorphic RBCs suggest glomerular disease; leukocyte esterase/nitrite favor infection; crystals suggest stones.

  • Potassium/bicarbonate: high K? or low CO2 may appear in advanced CKD and need clinician review.

  • PTH/Calcium/Phosphorus: abnormal patterns indicate CKD-MBD risk.

  • Anemia/iron indices: low hemoglobin with altered iron studies is common as CKD advances.
    Always interpret patterns over time and review results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Foundational CKD panel (most users): eGFR (creatinine) • Urine ACR • Urinalysis

  • Confirmation/refinement: add cystatin?C eGFR when creatinine-based eGFR is borderline or muscle mass is atypical.

  • Complications panel: electrolytes • CO2 • Calcium • Phosphorus • Intact PTH • 25-OH Vitamin D • CBC • Iron studies.

  • Etiology panel (select cases): autoimmune serologies, hepatitis B/C, SPEP/free light chains.

  • Metabolic risk: A1c • Lipids • Uric acid.

FAQs

How often should I check my kidneys if I have diabetes or high blood pressure?
Commonly once a year for eGFR, ACR, and urinalysis—more often if results are abnormal or risk is higher.

What is a good ACR?
An ACR <30?mg/g is generally normal. Higher values should be rechecked and discussed with your clinician.

Why add cystatin?C if I already have creatinine?
Cystatin?C can confirm or refine eGFR, especially when muscle mass or diet makes creatinine less reliable.

Can dehydration change my results?
Yes. Dehydration can raise creatinine and ACR. Rehydration and repeat testing may be needed.

Do I need to fast?
Not for kidney function or ACR. Fast only if your order includes lipids or fasting glucose.

When should I see a nephrologist?
Consider referral for eGFR <30A3 albuminuriarapid decline, resistant hypertension, or unclear cause—your clinician will guide you.

Can medicines affect my kidneys?
Some medications (e.g., NSAIDs, certain antibiotics, contrast dyes) can stress kidneys. List all meds and supplements on your lab order.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Kidney & Urinary Health Tests Hub

  • Blood in Urine (Hematuria) • Protein in Urine (Albumin/Protein Ratios) • Kidney Stone Risk • Hypertension Tests • Diabetes Health

  • Key Tests: Creatinine/eGFR • Cystatin?C (eGFRcys) • Urine ACR • Urinalysis with Microscopy • Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl) • Bicarbonate (CO2) • BUN • Calcium • Phosphorus • Intact PTH • 25-OH Vitamin D • CBC • Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • A1c • Lipid Panel • Uric Acid • ANA/C3/C4/ANCA/anti-GBM • Hepatitis B/C • SPEP/Free Light Chains

References

  • KDIGO. Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease.
  • National Kidney Foundation (KDOQI). CKD detection, staging, and complications.
  • American Diabetes Association. Standards of Care in Diabetes—CKD screening and management.
  • American Heart Association. Hypertension and CKD risk statements.
  • ASN/ACP consensus statements on cystatin?C use to confirm eGFR.
  • Clinical reviews on CKD-MBD (calcium, phosphorus, PTH, vitamin D).
  • AUA guidelines on evaluation of microhematuria and stone risk (context).

Available Tests & Panels

Your Kidney Disease Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with creatinine/eGFRurine ACR, and urinalysis. Use filters to add cystatin?Celectrolytes/CO2bone-mineral (calcium, phosphorus, PTH, vitamin D)anemia/iron studies, and etiology tests when needed. Review results with your clinician to confirm CKD, stage risk, and set a monitoring plan.

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Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection


The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) Test measures eight markers, including glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, BUN, and creatinine, to evaluate kidney function, blood sugar, and electrolyte balance. Doctors use this panel to detect diabetes, dehydration, and kidney disease, or to monitor treatment. It is commonly ordered in routine exams, emergency care, or pre-surgical testing to assess overall metabolic and organ health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: BMP Test, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, Chem 7, Chem 11, SMA 7, SMAC7, Basic Metabolic Test, Chem Test, Chem Panel Test 

Most Popular

The Creatinine Test measures creatinine levels in blood to evaluate kidney function and filtration efficiency. Elevated levels may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or muscle disorders, while low levels may reflect reduced muscle mass. Doctors use this test to monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD), assess treatment response, and detect early signs of renal impairment. It provides key insight into kidney health, metabolic balance, and overall renal function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Blood Creatinine Test, Serum Creatinine Test

The Creatinine Clearance Test measures how effectively the kidneys filter creatinine from blood into urine, providing an estimate of glomerular filtration rate (GFR). This test requires both a blood sample and a 24-hour urine collection. Abnormal results may indicate kidney disease, reduced renal function, or dehydration. Doctors use this test to assess kidney performance, monitor chronic conditions, and guide treatment for renal disorders.

Also Known As: CRCL Test, CCT Test

The Creatinine Random Urine Test measures creatinine levels in a single urine sample to help assess kidney function and filtration efficiency. Abnormal results may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, muscle disorders, or impaired renal clearance. Doctors use this test alone or with protein testing to evaluate kidney health, monitor chronic conditions, and guide treatment strategies for patients with suspected renal or metabolic disorders.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Urine Create Test, Urine Creatinine Test, Random Urine Creatinine Test

The Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test measures urea nitrogen levels in blood to assess kidney function and how well the body removes waste. Elevated BUN may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or high protein intake, while low levels may suggest liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors order this test to evaluate fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. Results help diagnose kidney and liver conditions and guide treatment decisions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: BUN Test, Blood Urea Nitrogen Test

The Urinalysis Complete Test evaluates urine for physical, chemical, and microscopic properties to assess kidney health, urinary tract infections, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. It measures appearance, concentration, pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, bilirubin, nitrites, leukocyte esterase, and microscopic cells or crystals. Doctors use this test in routine exams, to diagnose urinary symptoms, and to monitor chronic kidney or metabolic disease.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Urine Analysis Test, UA Test, Complete Urinalysis Test

The Protein Total Random Urine Test measures the amount of protein in a single urine sample to evaluate kidney function and detect disorders. Elevated protein levels (proteinuria) may indicate kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, or urinary tract conditions. Doctors use this test to screen for kidney damage, monitor chronic disease, or investigate unexplained swelling, providing an important tool for early detection and treatment planning.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Albumin Random Urine Test with Creatinine measures albumin and creatinine levels in a urine sample to evaluate kidney health. Elevated albumin (microalbuminuria) may indicate early kidney disease, diabetes complications, or hypertension-related damage. Doctors use this test to detect kidney problems before symptoms appear, monitor chronic conditions, and guide treatment. It provides vital insight into renal function and long-term kidney disease management.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Urine Albumin Test, Random Microalbumin Test, uACR Test

The Albumin Creatinine Ratio Timed Urine Test measures albumin and creatinine levels in a timed urine sample to evaluate kidney function. Elevated albumin excretion can indicate early kidney damage, diabetic nephropathy, or hypertension-related disease. By analyzing the albumin-to-creatinine ratio, this test provides insight into kidney filtration, urinary protein loss, and overall renal health monitoring.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Urine Albumin Test, Timed Microalbumin Creatinine Ratio Test

The Acetylcholine Receptor Binding Antibody Test detects antibodies targeting acetylcholine receptors, a hallmark of myasthenia gravis. This autoimmune disorder affects nerve-to-muscle communication, causing weakness and fatigue. The test helps confirm diagnosis, differentiate from other neuromuscular diseases, and guide treatment. Elevated antibody levels support early detection and ongoing management of myasthenia gravis.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Acetylcholine Receptor Blocking Antibody Test evaluates autoantibodies that block acetylcholine receptors, impairing nerve-to-muscle signaling. It is commonly ordered in the workup of suspected myasthenia gravis, where these antibodies contribute to muscle fatigue and weakness. This test, often performed with AChR binding and modulating antibody assays, provides valuable insight into autoimmune mechanisms affecting neuromuscular transmission.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Acetylcholine Receptor Modulating Antibody Test measures autoantibodies that cause loss or alteration of acetylcholine receptors on muscle cells, impairing nerve transmission. Elevated levels are commonly linked to myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disorder causing muscle weakness. This test aids in identifying immune-mediated neuromuscular disease and helps evaluate disease severity.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Actin Smooth Muscle IgG Antibody Test detects autoantibodies against smooth muscle actin, often linked to autoimmune hepatitis and chronic liver disease. Elevated levels may indicate liver inflammation, cirrhosis, or other autoimmune conditions. Doctors use this blood test with liver panels and additional antibody tests to aid in diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment decisions for patients with suspected autoimmune liver disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Actin IgG Antibody Test

The Albumin Test measures albumin, the main protein made by the liver that maintains fluid balance and transports hormones, vitamins, and medications. Low albumin may indicate liver disease, kidney problems, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation, while high levels may reflect dehydration. Doctors order this test to evaluate swelling, fatigue, or abnormal labs. Results provide key insight into nutritional status, liver and kidney function, and overall metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: ALB Test

The Alpha-2 Macroglobulin Test evaluates concentrations of A2M, a protein that binds and regulates proteases in the blood. Elevated levels may suggest nephrotic syndrome or liver fibrosis, while decreased values can occur in acute pancreatitis or severe liver disease. This test supports evaluation of immune activity, inflammatory processes, and systemic disorders affecting protein balance and organ health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

The ANA IFA Panel Comprehensive screens for autoimmune disorders by detecting antinuclear antibodies and specific markers including dsDNA, Sm, Sm/RNP, Scl-70, and Sjögren’s SS-A/SS-B. Doctors order this panel for patients with joint pain, rash, fatigue, or suspected lupus, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Results provide critical insight into autoimmune activity, helping confirm diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment decisions.

Also Known As: Comprehensive ANA Panel

Random
Phlebotomist

The Beta-2-Microglobulin (B2M) Test measures levels of B2M, a protein found on most cell surfaces and released into the blood. Elevated levels may indicate multiple myeloma, lymphoma, chronic infections, or kidney disease. Doctors order this test to evaluate cancer stage, prognosis, or kidney function. Results provide essential insight into disease progression, immune activity, and treatment monitoring for blood cancers and renal disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: B2M Test, β2-Microglobulin Test, Thymotaxin Test

According to the National Center for Health Statistics survey, at least 6 million U.S. adults were diagnosed with kidney disease in 2018.

Your two kidneys are vital organs that perform essential roles in maintaining your health. Their primary functions include controlling water levels and essential minerals such as sodium for the body's optimum functioning.

Additionally, they help remove waste material from the blood; the kidneys are comprised of millions of nephrons, commonly referred to as blood-filtering units that filter waste such as urine from the blood.

The kidneys also help perform other miscellaneous roles, such as producing hormones that impact your overall body health.

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease is a condition in which your kidneys are not functioning properly, leading to an abnormal concentration of waste products and chemical substances that may be life-threatening.

Therefore, it is advisable to ask your doctor about kidney disease screening. The sooner you get checked, the sooner you can seek treatment to protect your kidneys.

About Kidney Disease

A diagnosis of kidney disease is often defined by the gradual loss of kidney functions, such as filtration of waste from the blood and a high amount of protein in the urine.

Risk Factors for Kidney Disease

The main risk factors for kidney disease include the following:

  • Diabetes: uncontrolled diabetes leads to high blood glucose that gradually damages the kidneys' nephrons.
  • High blood pressure: it can cause damage to kidneys' blood vessels
  • Age: Older people above 60 are at a higher risk to develop kidney disease
  • Family history of inherited disorders such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

Causes of Kidney Disease

Different conditions can lead to a loss in kidney function. The leading causes include the following:

  • Decrease in blood flow to the kidneys
  • Drainage blockage from the kidney that is caused by enlarged prostate and kidney stones
  • Diabetes
  • Family history of inherited diseases such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
  • High blood pressure
  • Damage to kidney's filtering units (glomerulonephritis).

Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease?

Most people with kidney disease do not exhibit visible symptoms until their kidneys are badly damaged. The disease progresses silently without significant signs to suspect problems related to loss of kidney functions. However, lab tests during routine health examination can help detect early signs such as:

  • Hematuria (traces of blood in urine sample)
  • Proteinuria (proteins in the urine sample)
  • Decreased eGFR
  • Elevated creatinine
  • A decrease in the amount of urine
  • Urination problems such as burning sensation and abnormal discharge.

You may also notice the following symptoms in chronic kidney disease:

  • Muscle cramps
  • Darkened skin
  • Numbness in feet
  • Tiredness
  • Signs such as swollen legs and ankles that depict fluid retention.

Lab Tests for Kidney Disease

Doctors use different tests to check for kidney disease. They check your kidney numbers using the GFR (glomerular filtration rate) or ACR (Albumin to Creatinine Ratio) tests.

You may need the following lab tests and procedures for kidney disease diagnosis:

Blood Tests for Kidney Disease Testing

Most kidney function tests involve blood tests. Your doctor will check how well your kidney filters waste from your blood. The doctor will check the following:

Serum Creatinine Test

One sign of early kidney disease progression is the presence of creatinine in the blood. When your kidney muscles wear and tear, they produce creatinine as a waste product.

Creatinine level above 1.2 and 1.4 in women and men respectively shows that your kidney is not functioning correctly. However, these levels may vary depending on body size and age.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test

When you eat protein, your body breaks it down, and urea nitrogen is one of its waste products. A doctor will measure the level of urea nitrogen in your blood to check the level of your kidney function.

Often, the expected level should be between 7 and 20. An increase in its levels in the blood depicts a decrease in kidney function.

Blood Test to Estimate Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

One of a healthy kidney's indicators is its ability to filter waste and excess fluid from your blood. Doctors use the estimated glomerular filtration rate to test for creatinine levels in your blood. Your GFR number helps doctors to determine the stage of your kidney disease.

The standard GFR value should be above 60. Your kidneys are not working properly if it drops below 60. Moreover, you are at a higher risk for kidney failure once your GFR drops to below 15.

Urine Tests

Doctors can determine the level of protein leaks from your kidney by conducting a urine test. A standard urine test includes the following:

A Urinalysis

Doctors conduct a microscopic examination to check for abnormalities such as the presence of excess proteins, blood, pus, and sugar in your urine sample. A urinalysis is effective in detecting chronic kidney disease and kidney stones.

A Urine protein test

This test confirms proteinuria, an excess amount of proteins in your urine.

Microalbumin (Checking Albumin in Urine)

The doctor uses this urine test to check a protein called albumin in your urine sample. Microalbumin testing encompasses using a sensitive dipstick test mostly for people at high risk of developing kidney disease.

A Test For Creatinine Clearance

Creatinine clearance test compares the level of creatinine in your urine sample. The doctor uses a 24-hours urine sample to determine how much waste the kidney filter out.

Imaging Tests

A doctor can order a kidney ultrasound to assess its structure or size.

Kidney Biopsy

A small sample of your kidney tissue may be examined for signs of damage. Doctors administer local anesthesia when performing a kidney biopsy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kidney Disease and Lab Testing for Kidney Disease

Some fundamental questions about chronic kidney disease and kidney lab testing that you may ask your doctor include the following:

  • What is causing damage to my kidneys?
  • Is the level of damage to my kidney worsening?
  • Do I need a further lab test?
  • When can I see a kidney screening specialist?
  • How frequently should I have my kidney function tested in a year?
  • How can I manage kidney disease together with another health condition?
  • Should I consult a dietician to help me plan a special diet?

Get To Know Your Kidney Health: Order Your Kidney Disease Tests at Ulta Lab Tests Today!

Order your kidney lab tests at Ulta Lab Tests and enjoy the following benefits:

  • At Ulta Lab Tests, we offer tests that are highly accurate and reliable so that you can use them to make informed decisions about your health.
  • We send you secure and confidential results online.
  • You do not need insurance or a doctor’s referral to order kidney lab tests
  • You get affordable pricing that includes a doctor's order
  • We guarantee you 100% satisfaction.

Order your kidney lab tests and your results will be sent securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests. Take charge of your kidney health and track your progress with Ulta Lab Tests today!