Creatinine Clearance Test

Creatinine clearance test is done in order to detect creatinine levels in the person. This in turn determines the working of kidneys. Creatinine is one of the waste products that is present in the urine. Presence of this material will help to know how well kidneys are functioning, blood flow and if there are any other disorders that will affect kidneys. This test will determine the rate of blood flow which is known as Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). This test is done by taking sample of urine for 24 hours or else sample of blood. GFR varies according to age, gender and size of the person.

In order to prepare for creatinine clearance test, it is better to take advice of the doctor beforehand. It is most important to doctor about the medicines or food you intake and know what should be avoided. Medicines such as pain killers, supplements and certain herbs should be avoided before the test is done. Also, it is essential to ask doctor at what time of the day should the test begin. In case of women, they are required to inform doctor beforehand if they are pregnant. Certain medicines can affect the creatinine levels, hence it is advisable to avoid the before the test on the advice of doctor. Even certain exercises will also affect GFR.

Creatinine clearance test results determine the level kidney disorders, depending upon the GFR levels. Hence, reports conclude following results: Kidney will be functioning normal if GFR is equal to 90 or above. If GFR is in between 60 to 89, then there is slight decrease in the functioning of kidneys. If GFR is in between 45 to 59, then there is mild to moderate decrease in the level of kidneys functioning. If GFR is in between 30 to 44, then there is moderate to severe decrease in functioning of kidneys. If GFR is in between 15 to 29, there is severe decrease in the level of kidneys functioning. If GFR is less than 15, it means are kidneys are failed and require immediate treatment.

Creatinine clearance test is used to detect the renal function and ability of kidneys to filter blood through them. This test is carried out in two types that is by taking sample of blood and other is taking sample of urine collected in 24 hours. Blood test is done by inserting needle into the vein and collecting sample blood from the person. This blood is transferred into tube and sent to laboratory. Urine test is done by taking sample of urine collected in 24 hours in the container. Person undergoing test need to empty is stomach in early morning without collecting the sample; from next time when they pass urine they need to collect it every time for 24 hours. Then this container has to be sent to laboratory for testing.