Renal Function Test (RFT): Purpose, Normal Range & Results Explained

Learn everything about the Renal Function Test (RFT) including what it is, normal values, cost, symptoms of poor kidney function, and how the test is done. A complete guide to kidney health.

What is the Renal Function Test?

A Renal Function Test (RFT) is a series of tests used to determine how effectively your kidneys are functioning. This test is useful in identifying kidney disorders and monitoring kidney function.

RFT Abbreviation

RFT stands for “Renal Function Test”. This is the test of blood and urine which assesses the function of your kidneys.

RFT Meaning in Medical Terms

In medical terms, RFT (Renal Function Test) is a group of tests that measure:

The efficiency of kidneys which filters the waste.
The balance of electrolytes and fluids in your body.
The sign of kidney damage and disease.

RFT Test Parameters

The typical RFT panel includes the following parameters:

Serum Creatinine

Measures waste buildup in blood. High levels may indicate poor kidney function.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

Checks how much nitrogen (from urea) is in your blood. High BUN can signal impaired kidney function.

Uric Acid

Excess uric acid can indicate poor kidney filtration or other metabolic issues.

Electrolytes (like Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Bicarbonate)

Important for fluid balance, heart rhythm, and nerve function.

eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

An estimate of kidney filtration efficiency. Low eGFR indicates reduced kidney function.

Calcium and Phosphorus Levels

Imbalances may suggest chronic kidney disease.

Urine Routine and Microscopy

Detects proteins, blood, or infection in the urine.

What Are the 3 Tests Included in Kidney Function Tests?

A kidney function test typically consists of three tests:

Serum Creatinine Test – This test determines creatinine levels in the bloodstream.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test – This test determines the level of nitrogen in the blood.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Test – This determines how effectively your kidneys filter waste.

How Many Tests Are in RFT?

A “Renal Function Test (RFT)” includes multiple tests like creatinine, urea, BUN, GFR, electrolytes, and urine analysis to assess kidney function.

What is a Normal Renal Function?

A normal renal function means that your kidneys are efficiently removing waste and maintaining a proper balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.

How Much RFT is Normal?

Normal values for RFT tests:

– Serum Creatinine: 0.6-1.2 mg/dL (for men); 0.5-1.1 mg/dL (for women).
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): 7–20 mg/dL
— GFR: More than 90 mL/min is considered normal.

What is Poor Renal Function?

Poor renal function means your kidneys are not filtering waste properly. This can be due to chronic kidney disease (CKD), dehydration, or other medical conditions.

What is the RFT Test Cost?

The cost of a RFT test varies from ₹300 to ₹1,500 in India, depending on the lab and location.

How is a Renal Test Done?

A renal function test is done using a blood sample taken from a vein and sometimes includes a urine sample for further analysis.

What is LFT and RFT?

LFT (Liver Function Test) is the test that checks liver health.
RFT (Renal Function Test) is the test that assesses kidney health. How Do You Check Renal Function?
Renal function is checked through blood tests (creatinine, BUN, GFR) and urine tests.

What if RFT is High?

A high RFT(Renal Function Test) indicates possible kidney damage, dehydration, or other medical conditions. A doctor should be consulted for further evaluation.

Is RFT Test Done on an Empty Stomach?

Yes, RFT(Renal Function Test) is usually done on an empty stomach for accurate results.

What is the Biggest Indicator of Kidney Disease?

The biggest indicator of kidney disease is a low GFR (<60 mL/min) for three months or longer.

What Are the Symptoms of Poor Renal Function?

Common symptoms include:

Swelling in legs and feet
Fatigue
Frequent urination
Dark-colored urine
Nausea and vomiting Who Needs a Kidney Function Test?
People who should get an RFT include:
Those with diabetes or high blood pressure
People with a family history of kidney disease
Patients on long-term medications affecting kidneys

What Are the Three Warning Signs of Kidney Disease?

Swelling in hands, feet, or face
Changes in urination (frequency or color)
High blood pressure with no clear cause

How Do I Improve My Kidney Function?

Stay hydrated
Eat a kidney-friendly diet (low salt, balanced protein)
Control blood sugar and blood pressure
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol

What is the Most Accurate Test for Kidney Function?

The GFR test is the most accurate test for kidney function. Kidney Function Test Names
Other names for the kidney function test include:

Renal Function Test (RFT)
Kidney Function Test (KFT)
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Test

Renal Function Test in Hindi

रेनल फंक्शन टेस्ट (RFT) किडनी की कार्यक्षमता जांचने के लिए किया जाता है। इसमें क्रिएटिनिन, यूरिया और GFR की जाँच की जाती है।

Renal Function Test PDF & PPT

Many hospitals and labs provide Renal Function Test (RFT) reports in PDF format. You can also find RFT presentations (PPTs) online for educational purposes.

Renal Function Test Report

The RFT report includes test results for creatinine, BUN, GFR, and other kidney-related parameters.

Conclusion

A Renal Function Test is important for diagnosing and monitoring kidney health. If you experience symptoms of kidney disease, consult a doctor and get an RFT done. Taking care of your kidneys with a healthy lifestyle can help maintain good renal function.

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