GFR With Cystatin C, Serum -18 Years & Above

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a biomarker of kidney function which helps assess the ability of the kidneys to filter waste and excess fluids from the body. Conventional GFR estimation relies on serum creatinine levels, which has certain limitations particularly for individuals with advanced age or varying muscle size. On the other hand, Cystatin C, a protein expressed in all nucleated cells and due to its relatively constant rate of generation, it is considered as the reliable marker for assessing kidney function. This protein is freely filtered by the kidneys and not significantly affected by the factors like age, gender, muscle mass or diet, its serum levels provide a more accurate measurement of GFR. 

The GFR With Cystatin C, Serum -18 Years & Above test helps in the early detection of kidney disease, monitoring disease progression and assessing kidney function in predisposed populations (e.g., elderly, obese, or those with muscle-atrophy). It is recommended when a past kidney function test results show unclear results about your kidneys and your doctor wants to check again with the GFR With Cystatin C, Serum -18 Years & Above test to be sure. This test provides more accurate estimates in patients with differences in diet, extremes of muscle mass (such as body builders or patients with muscle wasting), in estimating change in eGFR over time in people with changing muscle mass or diet. 

Cystatin C based GFR estimation is useful in various conditions, including Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) diagnosis and staging, Acute kidney disease (AKI) assessment, End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD) evaluation, Diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome and Glomerulonephritis. Moreover, it helps in monitoring kidney function in individuals with comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, liver disease etc. 

No special preparation is required for this test. Inform your doctor about all the medications or supplements that you may be taking as well as your medical history as these factors could potentially affect the test results.  

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Interpretation of the test results requires expert guidance. Therefore, do not self-medicate and talk to your doctor to understand your test results correctly. The insights from GFR With Cystatin C, Serum -18 Years & Above test helps doctors determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, prescribe medication if required to manage your condition, and formulate your overall treatment plan.