Kidney function test (KFT): creatinine, urea, eGFR explained
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma, MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM · Reg. APMC/FMR 112686 · Reviewed October 2026
A kidney function test checks how well your kidneys filter waste. It usually includes serum creatinine, blood urea and an estimated GFR (eGFR) calculated from creatinine. An eGFR of 90 or above is generally normal; values below 60 for three months or more can indicate chronic kidney disease. Urine tests for protein add important detail.
What a KFT usually includes
| Test | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Serum creatinine | A waste product cleared by the kidneys; higher can mean reduced filtering |
| Blood urea / BUN | Another waste product; affected by diet and hydration too |
| eGFR | Estimated filtering rate, calculated from creatinine, age and sex |
| Electrolytes, uric acid | Often added: sodium, potassium, uric acid |
| Urine protein | Protein in urine can be an early sign of kidney stress |
eGFR in simple terms
| eGFR (mL/min/1.73m²) | General meaning |
|---|---|
| 90 and above | Normal, if no other signs of kidney damage |
| 60 – 89 | Mildly reduced; often normal with age |
| Below 60 for 3+ months | May indicate chronic kidney disease; see a doctor |
Who should check kidney function
- People with diabetes or high blood pressure, at least yearly
- People over 60
- Those on long-term painkillers or certain medicines
- A family history of kidney disease
What YIRA's checkup covers
YIRA's 70-test checkup includes serum creatinine and a urine routine with protein. A full KFT with urea, eGFR and electrolytes is not part of it; the doctor consultation can advise if you need it.
A YIRA Family Health Plan includes a 70-test full body checkup at home for one registered member, a doctor consultation for the family, a review of an elder's past reports, and dental and eye check-ups. Essential ₹999 a year (up to 4 family members registered); Complete ₹1,299 a year (up to 8, with ₹5 lakh accident cover for the buyer).
70-test checkup at home plus family care, from ₹999 a year
Essential ₹999 (one 70-test checkup, up to 4 family members registered) · Complete ₹1,299 (up to 8, with ₹5 lakh accident cover). Doctor consultation, dental and eye check-ups included. Pay after sample collection.
Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required for a kidney function test?
Usually not, unless combined with tests that need fasting. Follow your lab's instructions.
What is a normal creatinine level?
It depends on age, sex and muscle mass, and each lab prints its own range. Doctors usually look at eGFR together with creatinine.
Can kidney disease be found early?
Yes. Creatinine, eGFR and urine protein tests can show changes before symptoms appear, which is why yearly checks matter for people with diabetes or high blood pressure.
Related
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma (MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM; APMC/FMR 112686). Prepared by the YIRA health team · Last updated 1 October 2026. This page is general health information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges differ between labs; always discuss your results with a doctor. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.