Ulta Lab Tests

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 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart 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 electrolytes, acid–base, calcium/phosphorus, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and anemia/iron labs to track CKD complications. Testing supports screening, diagnosis, staging, 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 ACR, urinalysis, 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: potassium, sodium, bicarbonate (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/hematocrit, ferritin, iron/TIBC, transferrin 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-GBM, hepatitis B/C, SPEP/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/eGFR, urine 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 <30, A3 albuminuria, rapid 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/eGFR, urine ACR, and urinalysis. Use filters to add cystatin?C, electrolytes/CO2, bone-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.

  • Page
  • 4
  • of
  • 4
  • Total Rows
  • 84
Name Matches

The StoneRisk® Panel evaluates urinary and serum biomarkers linked to kidney stone formation, including calcium, oxalate, uric acid, citrate, and other metabolic factors. This test provides a comprehensive assessment of urinary chemistry to identify contributors to nephrolithiasis. Results help determine stone type risk, guide prevention strategies, and support long-term kidney health management.

Varied
Phlebotomist
Also Known As: StoneRisk® Diagnostic Profile
Add to  

The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Comprehensive Diagnostic Panel measures key autoimmune markers to aid in lupus diagnosis and monitoring. This panel includes ANA Screen with reflex, dsDNA, chromatin, Sm, RNP, Sjögren’s (SS-A, SS-B), and complement levels (C3c, C4c, CH50). Doctors order this test for patients with fatigue, joint pain, rash, or organ involvement. Results provide critical insight into immune activity, disease severity, and treatment guidance.

Also Known As: Lupus Panel with ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern, SLE Antibody Panel
Add to  

The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Panel assesses key lupus markers, including complement proteins, autoantibodies, and inflammatory indicators. It supports detection of lupus flares, monitoring of renal and systemic involvement, and evaluation of immune system dysregulation. This panel aids in tracking lupus severity, disease activity, and response to ongoing management.

Also Known As: SLE Disease Activity Test
Add to  

The Thiopurine Metabolites Test evaluates active metabolites of thiopurine drugs, including 6-thioguanine nucleotides and 6-methylmercaptopurine, to assess treatment effectiveness and safety. Elevated or low metabolite levels may indicate risk of toxicity, under-dosing, or non-adherence. This test provides critical insight for managing patients on immunosuppressive therapy, guiding personalized dosing, and monitoring long-term response.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: 6 MMP Test, 6 Tg Test
Add to  
Most Popular

The Transferrin Test measures transferrin, a blood protein that transports iron, to evaluate iron status and nutritional health. High levels may suggest iron deficiency anemia, while low levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic illness. Doctors use this test alongside iron and TIBC to investigate fatigue, weakness, or anemia symptoms. Results provide vital insight into iron balance, red blood cell production, and overall metabolic function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Add to  
Most Popular

The Uric Acid Test measures uric acid levels in blood to assess kidney function and detect gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup. High levels may also signal kidney disease, kidney stones, or metabolic disorders, while low levels can occur with liver disease. Doctors use this test to investigate joint pain, swelling, or frequent urination, and to monitor treatment for gout, kidney stones, or chemotherapy-related complications.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Serum Urate Test
Add to  
Most Popular

The QuestAssureD™ Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy Total Test measures Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, and total 25-hydroxy vitamin D to assess overall vitamin D status. Adequate vitamin D supports bone strength, calcium absorption, immune health, and muscle function. Low levels may cause osteoporosis, weakness, or increased disease risk, while high levels can indicate toxicity. Doctors use this test to diagnose deficiency, monitor supplementation, and evaluate metabolic and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Vitamin D Test, Ergocalciferol Test, Vitamin D2 Test, Cholecalciferol Test, Vitamin D3 Test, Calcidiol Test, 25-hydroxyvitamin D Test, Calcifidiol Test, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D Test, Vitamin D Total Test
Add to  
Add to  
 A Urinalysis Screen test is a common diagnostic tool used in healthcare to assess and monitor various disorders by analyzing a patient's urine. This test encompasses a range of examinations including physical, chemical, and microscopic aspects of urine. It's a non-invasive, quick, and often revealing test that can provide significant insights into a person's health.
Urine
Urine Collection
Add to  

What is Kidney Disease and What are the Lab Tests for this Condition?

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!