Kidney Function
The Kidney Function test evaluates how well your kidneys filter waste from the blood. It measures urea, creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
Turnaround time
1 day
Biomarkers count
3
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Details about Kidney Function
What is the Kidney Function test?
The Kidney Function blood test assesses how effectively the kidneys are filtering waste products and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. It focuses on three core markers that reflect kidney performance and filtration capacity.
This panel includes:
- Urea – a waste product from protein metabolism
- Creatinine – a muscle breakdown product filtered by the kidneys
- eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) – a calculated measure of kidney filtration efficiency
Together, these markers provide a clear picture of renal function, helping identify acute or chronic kidney impairment.
Why do I need a Kidney Function test?
Kidney disease often develops silently and may only cause symptoms in advanced stages. Early testing allows detection before permanent damage occurs.
You may need a Kidney Function test if you:
- Have diabetes or high blood pressure
- Experience swelling in legs or ankles
- Have fatigue or reduced urine output
- Take medications affecting kidney function
- Have a family history of kidney disease
- Are undergoing routine health screening
- Need monitoring for chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Symptoms associated with kidney dysfunction include:
- Fatigue
- Swelling (oedema)
- Changes in urination
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Confusion (advanced cases)
Benefits of the Kidney Function test
- Detects kidney impairment early
Identifies reduced filtration before symptoms appear. - Assesses kidney filtration capacity
eGFR reflects overall renal performance. - Monitors chronic kidney disease
Tracks progression or stability over time. - Supports medication safety
Ensures drugs are dosed appropriately. - Essential for diabetes and hypertension care
Protects long-term kidney health. - Clinically standard renal panel
Used routinely in primary and specialist care. - Simple blood test
Requires only one sample. - Supports preventive healthcare
Enables early intervention and lifestyle changes.
Step by step – how the test works
You can access Kidney Function testing UK-wide through two options:
- Clinic appointment
Attend your nearest UK clinic where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample. - At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.
Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory and eGFR is calculated using standard equations.
Your results explained
Low kidney function
- Raised creatinine
- Raised urea
- Reduced eGFR
Typical UK interpretation:
- eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m²
Normal kidney function
- Balanced urea and creatinine
- Normal filtration rate
Typical UK interpretation:
- eGFR ≥ 90 mL/min/1.73m²
Moderately reduced kidney function
- Mild elevation in waste products
Typical UK interpretation:
- eGFR 60–89 mL/min/1.73m²
Results should be interpreted in relation to age, muscle mass and clinical context.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.