What i being tested?
The BUN/Creatinine ratio is a test that calculates the ratio between blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels in the blood. BUN and creatinine are waste products filtered by the kidneys, and the ratio between the two can provide information about kidney function. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is also calculated as part of this test to assess kidney function.
Reference Range
The BUN/Creatinine Ratio Blood Test is a diagnostic test used to evaluate kidney function. This test measures the ratio of two waste products, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine, in the blood. The reference range for BUN/Creatinine Ratio is 6-22 (calc). The normal range of BUN levels in the blood is dependent on age and gender. For males, the normal range of BUN levels is between 7-25 mg/dL, while for females, the normal range is between 7-25 mg/dL. The normal range for Creatinine levels in the blood varies with age and gender. For males, the normal range is between 0.79-1.58 mg/dL, while for females, the normal range is between 0.79-1.58 mg/dL for up to 2 days old and 0.20-1.00 mg/dL for above 3 days old. The normal ranges for BUN and Creatinine levels based on age and gender are as follows:
BUN levels:
< 1 month: 4-12 mg/dL for males and 3-17 mg/dL for females
1-11 months: 2-13 mg/dL for males and 4-14 mg/dL for females
1-3 years: 3-12 mg/dL for males and 3-14 mg/dL for females
4-19 years: 7-20 mg/dL for both males and females
?20 years: 7-25 mg/dL for both males and females
Creatinine levels:
?2 days: 0.79-1.58 mg/dL for both males and females
3-27 days: 0.35-1.23 mg/dL for both males and females
1 month-9 years: 0.20-0.73 mg/dL for both males and females
10-12 years: 0.30-0.78 mg/dL for both males and females
13-15 years: 0.40-1.05 mg/dL for males and 0.40-1.00 mg/dL for females
16-17 years: 0.60-1.20 mg/dL for males and 0.50-1.00 mg/dL for females.
Test Description
Why should you get a BUN/Creatinine Ratio Blood Test?
The BUN/Creatinine Ratio Blood Test is a simple blood test that measures the ratio of two waste products in your blood: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. BUN is produced when your liver breaks down protein, while creatinine is a waste product produced by your muscles. By measuring the ratio of these two substances in your blood, this test can help detect potential kidney problems, such as impaired kidney function or dehydration.
It is important to get this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or changes in urine color or smell. Additionally, if you have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, you may be at a higher risk for kidney problems and should consider getting this test as a precautionary measure.
What happens if you don't get this test?
If you don't get this test, you may be missing out on important information about the health of your kidneys. Kidney problems can progress quickly, and early detection is key to preventing further damage. Without this test, you may not know that there is a problem until symptoms become more severe, potentially leading to kidney failure.
What will you find out from this test?
The BUN/Creatinine Ratio Blood Test will provide you and your doctor with important information about the health of your kidneys. A high ratio may indicate impaired kidney function or dehydration, while a low ratio may indicate liver problems or malnutrition. Your doctor will interpret the results of this test and recommend appropriate next steps if necessary.
What can you do with this information?
If your BUN/Creatinine Ratio Blood Test results indicate potential kidney problems, your doctor may recommend additional testing, lifestyle changes, or medications to help improve kidney function. By taking action early, you can prevent further damage and maintain optimal kidney health.