Kidney Health

Kidney Health Tests help you check how well your kidneys filter waste, balance fluids and minerals, and protect overall health. Kidney problems often start silently, especially in people with diabeteshigh blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure.

A proactive plan pairs blood tests (creatinine with eGFR, sometimes cystatin C) with urine tests(albumin-to-creatinine ratio [ACR] and urinalysis) to spot early changes. Add electrolytesbicarbonate (CO2), and calcium/phosphorus/PTH to check for complications, plus stone-risk or UTI testing when symptoms fit. These labs support screeningdiagnosisstaging, and monitoring, but they do not replace a clinician’s evaluation or imaging when needed.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Often no symptoms early: abnormal labs on a routine check

  • Urinary clues: foamy urine (protein), blood in urine, frequent nighttime urination, burning/urgency (UTI signs)

  • Whole-body: ankle/leg swelling, fatigue, nausea, itchy skin, high blood pressure

  • Risk contexts: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, family history of kidney failure, recurrent UTIs or stones, autoimmune disease, long-term NSAID use

  • When to seek urgent care: chest pain, severe shortness of breath, confusion, little or no urine, severe flank pain, or rapidly worsening swelling

All symptoms and risks should be reviewed by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Detect kidney problems early and stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) using eGFR and ACR

  • Differentiate causes (e.g., diabetic kidney disease vs. glomerular disease) with urinalysis and targeted add-ons

  • Monitor complications and trends—electrolytes, acid–base, bone-mineral balance, and anemia

What testing cannot do

  • Identify the exact cause in every case—some situations need imaging or biopsy

  • Replace blood-pressure/diabetes management, medication review, or lifestyle guidance

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

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Creatinine & eGFR: core measure of kidney filtrationeGFR <60 for ≥3 months suggests CKD—trends matter.

  • Cystatin C (± eGFRcys): confirms/refines eGFR when creatinine is borderline or muscle mass is unusual.

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

  • Urinalysis with Microscopy: blood, protein, glucose, casts (RBC casts suggest glomerular disease), crystals (stone risk), infection clues.

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

  • BUN & CMP: overall kidney and metabolic status.

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

  • CBC & Iron Studies (ferritin, iron/TIBC, transferrin saturation): screen for anemia of CKD.

  • Stone-risk extras: urine pHurine calcium/uric acid, or 24-hour stone profile in recurrent stones.

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

Quick Build Guide

Goal Start with Add if needed
General wellness baseline Creatinine/eGFR • Urine ACR • Urinalysis Electrolytes • CO2
Diabetes or hypertension routine screen eGFR • ACR • Urinalysis A1c • Lipid panel • Cystatin C (borderline eGFR)
Abnormal protein or blood in urine Urinalysis • ACR • eGFR C3/C4 • ANA • ANCA • anti-GBM per clinician
Kidney stone risk or history Urinalysis (pH, crystals) • eGFR Urine calcium/uric acid • 24-hr stone profile
UTI symptoms Urinalysis with microscopy • Urine culture CBC • Creatinine/eGFR if febrile/systemic signs
Monitoring known CKD eGFR • ACR • Electrolytes • CO2 Calcium/Phosphorus • Intact PTH • 25-OH Vit D • CBC/Iron

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Select your starting set: most people begin with eGFR (creatinine)urine ACR, and urinalysis.

  2. Provide samples: clean-catch urine and a standard blood draw; no fasting unless lipids/glucose are included.

  3. Confirm persistence: repeat abnormal 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 stone/UTI testing based on findings.

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

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • eGFR: generally normal at ≥90<60 for ≥3 months supports CKD. Falling trends raise concern.

  • ACR: A1 (<30?mg/g) normal-mild; A2 (30–299) moderate; A3 (≥300) severe—higher categories increase risk at any eGFR.

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

  • Potassium/bicarbonate: high K? or low CO2 can appear as CKD advances and need clinician review.

  • PTH/Calcium/Phosphorus: abnormal patterns indicate bone-mineral issues.

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

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Foundational kidney wellness panel: eGFR (creatinine) • Urine ACR • Urinalysis

  • Refinement/confirmation: 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.

  • Stone/UTI add-ons: Urine pH/crystalsurine calcium/uric acid24-hr stone profile, and urine culture when indicated.

FAQs

How often should I test if I have diabetes or high blood pressure?
Often yearly for eGFR, ACR, and urinalysis; more often if abnormal or high-risk.

Why would I add cystatin C?
It can confirm or refine eGFR, especially when creatinine is borderline or muscle mass is unusual.

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

Can dehydration change my results?
Yes. Dehydration can bump creatinine and ACR. Rehydrate and repeat if your clinician advises.

What if I see blood or foam in my urine?
Both warrant urinalysis and ACR. Blood or persistent protein needs clinician follow-up.

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

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 • Urine Calcium/Uric Acid • 24-Hour Stone Profile • Urine Culture

References

  • KDIGO — Evaluation and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) guideline.
  • National Kidney Foundation (KDOQI) — CKD detection, staging, and complications.
  • American Diabetes Association — CKD screening and monitoring in diabetes.
  • American Heart Association — Hypertension and kidney disease risk statements.
  • ASN/ACP — Use of cystatin C to confirm eGFR.
  • AUA — Stone disease and hematuria evaluation guidance (context).

Available Tests & Panels

Your Kidney Health Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with eGFR (creatinine)urine ACR, and urinalysis; add cystatin Celectrolytes/CO2bone-mineral and anemia labs, and stone/UTI testing as needed. Follow collection instructions and review results with your clinician to confirm findings, stage risk, and set a monitoring plan.

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The Kidney Health - Basic panel is a crucial set of tests designed to evaluate kidney function and overall health. This panel comprises a Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, and a Urinalysis Complete. These tests offer a comprehensive look at the body's filtration system, checking for signs of kidney disease, infection, and other potential health issues.
Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Urine Collection

The Kidney Health - Basic Plus panel is an enhanced diagnostic tool designed to provide a deeper insight into kidney function and overall health status. It includes a Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, PTH Intact, Uric Acid, and a Urinalysis Complete. This panel provides a broad overview of blood health, metabolic function, and specifically, kidney health.
Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Urine Collection

The Kidney Health - Advanced panel is an extensive diagnostic tool designed for a detailed assessment of kidney function and related health indicators. It encompasses a Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Random Urine Creatinine, PTH Intact, QuestAssureD 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Total with D2 and D3, Uric Acid, and a Urinalysis Complete. This panel offers a comprehensive look at the body's filtration system, checking for signs of kidney disease, vitamin D status, and other potential health issues.
Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Urine Collection

The Kidney Health - Comprehensive panel is the most extensive evaluation offered for assessing kidney function and related health indicators. This panel includes an ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern, a Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Random Urine Creatinine, PTH Intact, QuestAssureD 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Total with D2 and D3, Uric Acid, and a Urinalysis Complete. It provides a detailed look at kidney function, autoimmune indicators, metabolic health, and vitamin D status.
Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, 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 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 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 

The Urinalysis Complete Test with Reflex to Culture screens urine for abnormalities in color, clarity, pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, and microscopic elements like red and white cells. If infection is suspected, it reflexes to a urine culture to identify bacteria. Doctors use this test to detect urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, guiding accurate diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing health management.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Urine Analysis with Reflex Test, UA with Reflex Test, UTI Test

The Culture Urine Routine Test detects and identifies bacteria or yeast in urine that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). By growing microorganisms in a lab, this test determines the type of infection and guides effective treatment. Doctors use it to evaluate symptoms such as painful urination, frequent urges, or fever and to monitor recurrent UTIs. Results provide critical insight for diagnosis, antibiotic selection, and urinary health management.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Urine Culture Test, Urine Culture and Sensitivity, UTI 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

Random
Phlebotomist

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 Cystatin C Test with eGFR measures blood levels of Cystatin C, a protein filtered by the kidneys, and calculates estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). This test provides a sensitive marker for kidney function and can detect early kidney disease, even when creatinine levels are normal. Doctors order it to evaluate chronic kidney disease risk, monitor treatment, and assess overall kidney health in patients with diabetes, hypertension, or other conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CysX Test, CysC Test

The Early Sjögren’s Syndrome Profile tests for antibodies to carbonic anhydrase VI (CA VI), salivary protein 1 (SP-1), and parotid specific protein (PSP) across IgG, IgA, and IgM isotypes. These novel biomarkers may appear before classic SS-A/SS-B antibodies, helping identify Sjögren’s syndrome earlier. This profile supports assessment of early autoimmune damage to salivary and lacrimal glands.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Kappa/Lambda Light Chains, Free with Ratio Blood Test measures free kappa and lambda light chains, proteins produced by plasma cells, and calculates their ratio. Abnormal results may indicate multiple myeloma, light chain amyloidosis, or related plasma cell disorders. Doctors use this test with serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation to detect, diagnose, and monitor disease progression or treatment response in patients with suspected blood cancers.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Isoenzyme Panel measures total LDH and separates it into isoenzymes (LDH-1 to LDH-5) to identify tissue damage. LDH-1 is linked to heart, LDH-2 to blood, LDH-3 to lungs, LDH-4 to kidneys, and LDH-5 to liver and muscle. Elevated levels may indicate heart attack, liver disease, anemia, or cancer. Doctors order this test to pinpoint tissue injury, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment strategies.


The Lipid Panel Test with Reflex to Direct LDL measures total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol ratios to assess heart and vascular health. If triglycerides are very high, it automatically reflexes to direct LDL measurement for greater accuracy. Doctors use this test to evaluate cardiovascular risk, guide cholesterol management, and monitor therapy. Results provide key insight into lipid balance, heart disease prevention, and metabolic health.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile with Reflex Test, Lipids with Reflex Test, Cholesterol Profile with Reflex Test

The LKM-1 IgG Antibody Test measures antibodies targeting liver kidney microsomal antigen 1, often linked to autoimmune hepatitis type 2 and liver dysfunction. It helps identify autoimmune activity, chronic hepatitis, and unexplained liver inflammation. This test provides valuable information about immune response, hepatic health, and systemic risks related to autoimmune-mediated liver disease.

Blood
Blood Draw

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 Oxalic Acid 24 Hour Urine Test measures urinary oxalate excretion to evaluate risk for kidney stone formation and metabolic disorders. Elevated oxalic acid may indicate primary or secondary hyperoxaluria, malabsorption syndromes, or dietary imbalance. By tracking oxalate output over 24 hours, this test provides valuable insight into urinary health, metabolic function, and conditions that impact calcium oxalate stone development.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Oxalic Acid Random Urine Test measures urinary oxalate levels to evaluate risk of kidney stone formation and metabolic disorders. Elevated oxalate may result from dietary factors, intestinal malabsorption, or primary hyperoxaluria, while low levels may reflect dietary deficiency or altered metabolism. This test supports assessment of urinary chemistry, renal health, and metabolic balance in stone disease evaluation.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Phosphate 24 Hour Urine Test with Creatinine measures phosphate excretion alongside creatinine to assess kidney function, bone metabolism, and mineral balance. By tracking phosphate levels over a full day, the test helps evaluate disorders affecting calcium-phosphate regulation, parathyroid activity, and renal handling of minerals, offering valuable insight into metabolic health and skeletal integrity.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: 24 Hour Urine Phosphate Test with Creatinine

According to the Kidney Disease Foundation, 1 in 2 people with very low kidney function is unaware of their health condition. An estimated 37 million Americans have kidney disease, yet 90% of those people aren't aware they have it.

This general unawareness of such a life-threatening illness is very concerning, especially since it is a leading cause of death in the United States.

To protect yourself from kidney disease and failure, it's important to test your organ function with a kidney health test. Kidney health blood tests will help you assess your kidney function and take immediate action if the results show that your kidney is not functioning properly.

What Are Kidney Health Lab Panels?

Kidneys are organs in your body that filter your bloodstream to remove waste and excess fluid. Without them, our bloodstream fills with waste particles, and our bodies cannot regulate toxicity in our blood.

Kidney health lab panels are blood tests you can order to determine your kidney function. These tests assess your kidney health by measuring the amount of waste that is flowing through your bloodstream.

A fundamental waste particle, creatinine, comes from the normal use of your muscular system. Your creatinine levels can differ, usually depending on your weight, age, and race. As your kidneys slow down, more creatinine flows through your bloodstream unfiltered. 

You should be meeting optimal levels in general, but you can also track the rise in creatinine levels over time using kidney function tests. For most women, creatinine levels should be under 1.2 when tested. For men, levels should be under 1.4.

Kidney health tests will consider your age and sex when assessing creatinine levels. There is also an adjustment factor for those of African American descent. 

Benefits of Kidney Health Lab Testing

There are many benefits to checking your kidney health. If you are experiencing symptoms, a kidney blood test will help you determine if kidney function is the cause. For example, early signs that you could be suffering from kidney disease are:

  • Exhaustion
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Blood or foam in the urine
  • Frequent urgency
  • Constant eye puffiness

There are a few different causes of kidney disease. You might have a condition that causes a decreased blood flow to your organs, or you've suffered damage to your kidneys. You might have also suffered from blocked drainage tubes, which will stop waste from exiting your body. 

If you have let symptoms persist without checking for kidney disease, your illness could progress to later stages. Acute kidney failure is when kidney function completely stops. You'll have to be hospitalized if you experience:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Confusion
  • Nausea
  • Decreased output of urine
  • Chest pain and pressure
  • Weakness
  • Seizures

You won't get to this point if you are regularly checking your health and taking action. Getting kidney blood tests and knowing how to protect your kidneys can save your life.

Types of Kidney Health Tests

At Ulta Lab Tests, we offer four panels to choose from that you can order to assess your kidney function. 

Kidney Health Basic Test

The kidney health basic test is the most popular panel by Ulta Lab Tests. This panel tests for 81 different biomarkers that can determine kidney health.

The first test on the panel is the CBC or complete blood count test. This test will check for 33 different biomarkers in your blood to check red and white blood cells. You may find that you have an increased white blood cell count, which is a sign of infection or allergic reaction. 

The second test on the panel is the comprehensive metabolic panel. This test checks for 21 biomarkers produced by the liver, muscles, and kidneys.

In this test, you may find an increased amount of creatinine, which will indicate lowered kidney function.

Finally, there will also be a urinalysis test. This test will check for all the waste particles and extra cells that could indicate lowered kidney function when found in high levels.

Kidney Health Basic Plus Test

The kidney health basic plus panel adds two more tests. Along with the CBC, CMP, and urinalysis tests, you'll also receive the PTH and Uric Acid tests.

The PTH test checks parathyroid hormone levels, the hormone that controls calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorous levels in the blood. 

The Uric Acid test checks for uric acid in the blood serum, which is created when your body breaks down purines. Purines are found in food and drink and should be filtered by the kidneys. If you have high levels of uric acid, it could mean your kidneys aren't functioning properly.

Kidney Health Advanced Test

The kidney health advanced panel adds 2 more tests, the creatinine urine test and the 25-Hydroxyvitamin D test. While the basic plus test will check for creatinine in the blood, you can also test if it is being excreted into your urine. 

The 25-Hydroxyvitamin D test will test for levels of VItamin D2, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin D total in your blood's serum.

Kidney Health - Comprehensive

The kidney health comprehensive panel covers all the available tests for kidney health. You'll get all the above in addition to the ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern, IFA test. This antinuclear antibody panel will reveal if an autoimmune disease is causing your illness.

Top 5 Kidney Function Tests

If you choose the Top 5 kidney function panel, you'll get the top 5 most popular targeted tests. This package includes the creatinine clearance test, microalbumin test, renal function panel, urinalysis test, and urine protein test.

By choosing this option, you'll get very targeted results about your kidney rather than checking your overall health and other causes of your illness.

Benefits of Kidney Health Lab Testing With Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results
  • You don't need health insurance
  • You don't need a referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Order your kidney health test today, and your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests!

Take control of your health today with Ulta Lab Tests.