What test is commonly used to assess kidney function?

The serum creatinine test is a primary and widely used laboratory test to assess kidney function. Creatinine is a waste product generated from the normal breakdown of muscle tissue, and it is typically filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. Measuring the level of creatinine in the blood provides valuable insights into how well the kidneys are filtering this waste. Elevated serum creatinine levels can indicate impaired kidney function, which may be due to a variety of conditions such as kidney disease, dehydration, or other nephrological issues.

Monitoring serum creatinine is particularly important in clinical settings because it helps healthcare providers evaluate kidney performance and make informed decisions regarding patient management and treatment options. Additionally, the serum creatinine test is often used in conjunction with other tests, such as the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), for a more comprehensive assessment of kidney function.