Cystatin C test with EGFR

The cystatin C test (which also includes estimated creatinine clearance (eGFR)) can be done along with the creatinine or creatinine clearance test in cases where those tests aren’t appropriate, such as patients taking creatine supplements for bodybuilding. These supplements can increase creatinine and decrease creatinine clearance, which can alarm doctors who fear kidney dysfunction. This creatinine increase is not clinically relevant, but running a Cystatin C test can give physicians reassurance and allow the patient to keep taking that effective bodybuilding supplement. Additionally, the Cystatin C test may also be ordered to monitor known impairment over time, particularly in the elderly or in sick babies.

The cystatin C test (which also includes estimated creatinine clearance (eGFR)) can be done along with the creatinine or creatinine clearance test in cases where those tests aren’t appropriate, such as patients taking creatine supplements for bodybuilding. These supplements can increase creatinine and decrease creatinine clearance, which can alarm doctors who fear kidney dysfunction. This creatinine increase is not clinically relevant, but running a Cystatin C test can give physicians reassurance and allow the patient to keep taking that effective bodybuilding supplement. 

Cystatin C Test: A Game-Changer in Kidney Disease Detection

Are you concerned about your kidney health? The Cystatin C test may just be a game-changer for you. This simple blood test can help in the early detection of kidney disease, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. In this blog, we will dive deep into what the Cystatin C test is, why it is important to get tested, when to get tested, and how to prepare for the test. We will also answer common questions about the test, such as how it is used, what the results mean, and much more. If you want to take control of your kidney health and make informed decisions, keep reading. Plus, we'll share a valuable resource where you can buy the Cystatin C test at an affordable price.

Cystatin C with Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), Serum

Cystatin C, a biomarker for renal function, offers advantages over traditional markers like creatinine in detecting kidney failure, including acute kidney injury and renal disease. The role of cystatin C in monitoring the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) during pregnancy remains controversial. However, incorporating Cystatin C testing into routine kidney disease screening and monitoring has the potential to improve the diagnosis and management of conditions like chronic kidney disease, including end-stage renal disease and liver cirrhosis. With this cystatin C-based test, doctors can learn important things about the health of the kidneys and liver, like early kidney dysfunction and acute kidney injury, without having to do invasive procedures or just look at creatinine levels. This is very important because all cells with nuclei make cystatin C, a basic protein that is not glycosylated and is a good way to tell how well the kidneys are working overall. Also, studies have shown that the amount of serum cystatin C is a good way to tell if a critically ill patient is having acute renal dysfunction. This is true regardless of gender, age, race, or protein intake, which shows how important it is to keep the kidneys healthy.

Cystatin C Test at a Glance

The cystatin C test is a highly accurate indicator of kidney function, surpassing traditional tests such as the serum creatinine assay. Its ability to detect early signs of kidney disease allows for timely intervention and treatment, especially in individuals with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. Using the latex-enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay to check plasma cystatin C levels helps doctors see how kidney disease is getting worse and how well treatment is working. Incorporating the cystatin C assay, which does not have a blind area, into routine screenings can save lives and enhance overall kidney health. The cystatin C test, which measures the levels of cystatin C in the blood, provides a more accurate and real-time assessment of kidney function compared to the traditional creatinine measurement. This makes it a crucial tool for early diagnosis and intervention in individuals at risk for kidney disease.

Why get tested?

Getting tested for cystatin C is important, as it can detect early signs of kidney dysfunction or disease more accurately than traditional markers. Regular testing helps monitor kidney disease progression and guide treatment decisions. Early detection and management can prevent further damage and improve outcomes.

When do I get tested?

It is advisable to undergo a cystatin C test if you have risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or hyperthyroidism. Additionally, if you experience symptoms like frequent urination, fatigue, or swelling in the hands and feet, it is recommended to get tested. Your doctor may also suggest a cystatin C test if you are taking medications that could potentially impact kidney function or if you have a family history of coronary heart disease or heart failure. If you already have kidney disease or are receiving treatment for it, regular monitoring with a cystatin C test may be necessary, especially for elderly people. Higher levels of cystatin C may also be a sign of diabetes, cancer, or HIV and may increase the risk of death, cardiovascular disease, and heart failure. If you have an abnormally high concentration of cystatin C in your blood, it is important to talk to your doctor about what your results mean for your kidney and heart health.

What test preparation is needed?

The Cystatin C test does not require any specific preparation, but it's essential to inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements. Fasting for a few hours prior to the test is recommended, but follow your healthcare provider's instructions for accurate results.

What is being tested?

The cystatin C test quantifies the amount of cystatin C, a protein that cells produce and the kidneys filter, in the blood. It helps evaluate kidney function and identify potential kidney disease at an early stage. Elevated levels of cystatin C may suggest impaired kidney function.

How is the test used?

The cystatin C test is a blood test that measures the cystatin C level in the blood. It aids in assessing kidney function and identifying early signs of kidney disease. When used alongside other tests like creatinine, it provides a more precise evaluation. The results of this test play a crucial role in determining treatment plans and monitoring the progression of kidney disease. The test measures the concentrations of cystatin C in the blood, which can indicate the functioning of the kidneys and the health of the glomeruli. The normal range of cystatin C is around 0.62–1.15 mg/l. Values can vary between laboratories. Generally, a high level of cystatin C indicates a decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and poor kidney function. This test is important in determining the effectiveness of treatment plans and monitoring the progression of kidney disease. For the cystatin C test, you need a red-top tube, a gel-barrier tube, or a green-top (heparin) tube with 1 ml of serum or plasma in it. However, it is important to note that in critically ill hospitalized patients, cystatin C may return to a normal level more quickly than creatinine and could be used to assess kidney function and severity of illness when GFR is rapidly changing.

When is the cystatin C test ordered?

The Cystatin C test is usually ordered to evaluate kidney function in various situations, including when there are signs of kidney disease, to monitor kidney function in individuals with known kidney problems, and as part of routine check-ups to detect and prevent kidney disease early.

What is the difference between cystatin C and creatinine?

Both cystatin C and creatinine tests are used to measure kidney function in the body under normal conditions, but they differ in some key ways. The kidneys remove creatinine, a waste product that muscles produce, from the blood cells. However, other variables like age, gender, and muscle mass, as well as supplements, can also have an impact on it, which can lead to inaccurate results, especially at lower values. Contrarily, all cells in the body produce cystatin C at a constant rate, which is unaffected by these factors. Therefore, it provides a more accurate measurement of kidney function and is particularly useful for people with certain conditions or who have undergone organ transplants. Body mass, age, sex, or race have little to no impact on the serum concentration of cystatin C levels, making them a more reliable marker of kidney function and potentially used to generate a more precise estimate of GFR. In this study, we examined the difference between serum creatinine and serum cystatin C levels in AKI to determine its relevance in the early stages of the condition.

Who May Need a Cystatin C Test?

The cystatin C test (which also includes estimated creatinine clearance (eGFR)) can be done along with the creatinine or creatinine clearance test in cases where those tests aren’t appropriate, such as:

• Patients taking creatine supplements for bodybuilding. These supplements can increase creatinine and decrease creatinine clearance, which can alarm doctors who fear kidney dysfunction. This creatinine increase is not clinically relevant, but running a Cystatin C test can give physicians reassurance and allow the patient to keep taking that effective bodybuilding supplement.
• In patients with cirrhosis
• Cases of morbid obesity
• Malnourishment
• Reduced muscle mass

The level of cystatin C in the blood may be a more accurate indicator of kidney health than creatinine because it is unaffected by body weight, medications, or diet, nor will it change due to infection or inflammation.

Testing for cystatin may also be useful to detect kidney disease early when the affected person isn’t experiencing many (if any) symptoms, and other tests like creatinine and eGFR results are normal.

What does the test result mean?

The test result measures cystatin C levels in your blood. A high level may suggest kidney problems, while a low level usually indicates normal kidney function. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate interpretation of your test result.

Is there anything else I should know?

The Cystatin C test is a more accurate way to measure kidney function and can detect early signs of kidney disease. No fasting or special preparations are needed for the test, but it's important to discuss the results with your healthcare provider for proper interpretation and guidance.

How is an eGFR calculated?

The eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) is calculated using the MDRD equation, which factors in variables like blood creatinine level, age, gender, and race. It's important to remember that eGFR is an estimate and may not be completely accurate for every individual.

How can my actual GFR be determined?

To determine your actual GFR (glomerular filtration rate), a blood test is necessary. The most accurate way to measure GFR is by assessing the level of cystatin C in the blood, which reflects kidney function. Another method for estimating GFR is the Cockcroft-Gault formula, which calculates creatinine clearance. However, for patients where serum creatinine may be misleading, such as very obese, older adults, or malnourished patients, the CKD-EPI cystatin C estimated GFR may be a more accurate calculation. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper interpretation and understanding of your kidney function based on the test results.

Related Tests

A creatinine test measures the level of creatinine in the blood, a marker of kidney function. This test is included in the CMP test.

The urine albumin test detects albumin, indicating kidney damage.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) calculates how well the kidneys filter waste.

The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test measures nitrogen levels, indicating kidney function.

Kidney ultrasound creates images for further evaluation.

How to Purchase a Low-Cost Cystatin C Test at DiscountedLabs.com

The Cystatin C test is a game-changer in kidney disease detection, offering the convenience and affordability of purchasing the test online at DiscountedLabs.com. Early detection is crucial in managing kidney disease, and the Cystatin C test provides a more accurate assessment of kidney function compared to traditional methods like serum creatinine. By ordering the test through DiscountedLabs.com, you can easily access your test results and take proactive steps towards preserving your kidney health. The expected turnaround time for the Cystatin C test at DiscountedLabs.com is 3–5 days. Take advantage of the affordable and convenient option of purchasing the Cystatin C test at DiscountedLabs.com to prioritize your kidney health today.

Conclusion

The cystatin C test is a game-changer when it comes to detecting kidney disease. It provides a more accurate measurement of kidney function compared to traditional tests. By measuring the level of cystatin C in your blood, healthcare professionals can assess your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and identify any potential kidney problems early on. Early detection is crucial for the effective treatment and management of kidney disease. If you suspect that you may be at risk or want to monitor your kidney health, consider getting a cystatin C test. At DiscountedLabs.com, we offer affordable and reliable cystatin C testing. Take control of your kidney health today and order your test.

For more information, please read

Is the Cystatin C Test Better than Creatinine for Muscular Men?

Resources

The cystatin C test is an important tool in the evaluation and management of chronic kidney disease. To learn more about this test, you can refer to reputable sources such as the National Kidney Foundation, the Mayo Clinic, the American Association for Clinical Chemistry, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and studies on its use in critically ill patients. These sources provide valuable information on the test, its purpose, and how it can help in assessing kidney function. In addition, the cystatin C test is in line with the Kdigo clinical practice guideline for the evaluation and management of CKD, which came out in 2012. It is considered not medically reasonable and necessary for patients with the following stages of CKD: stage 1 kidney damage with a normal or elevated GFR > 90 ml/min/1.73 m2. Other reputable sources include the National Kidney Disease Education Program, which provides updates and information on the use of cystatin C by laboratory professionals.