What is a Renal Panel?
A renal panel is a group of tests that may be performed together to evaluate kidney (renal) function. The tests measure levels of various substances, including several minerals, electrolytes, proteins, and glucose (sugar), in the blood to determine the current status of the kidneys.
Testing
Electrolytes
Electrically charged chemicals that are vital to normal body processes, such as nerve and muscle function; among other things, they help regulate the amount of fluid in the body and maintain the acid-base balance.
Electrolytes include:
Sodium
Potassium
Chloride
Bicarbonate (CO2)
Minerals
Phosphorus
A mineral that is vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth; it also plays an important role as a buffer, helping to maintain the body’s acid-base balance.
Calcium
One of the most important minerals in the body; it essential for the proper functioning of muscles, nerves, and the heart and is required in blood clotting and in the formation of bones.
Protein
Albumin
A protein that makes up about 60% of protein in the blood and has many roles such as keeping fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and transporting hormones, vitamins, drugs, and ions like calcium throughout the body.
Waste Products
Urea/ Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Urea is a nitrogen-containing waste product that forms from the metabolism of protein; it is released by the liver into the blood and is carried to the kidneys, where it is filtered out of the blood and eliminated in the urine.
Creatinine
Another waste product that is produced by the body’s muscles; almost all creatinine is eliminated by the kidneys.
Sugar
Glucose
Energy source for the body; a steady supply must be available for use, and a relatively constant level of glucose must be maintained in the blood.
Three calculated values may also be reported with a renal panel:
Urea (BUN)/creatinine ratio
A comparison of urea (nitrogen) to creatinine content in the blood
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
A calculated estimate of the actual glomerular filtration rate (GFR, the amount of blood filtered by the glomeruli in the kidneys per minute) derived from creatinine levels in the blood; the formula takes into account the person’s age, gender, race, and sometimes height and weight.
Anion gap
Anion gap (AG or AGAP) is a value calculated using the results of an electrolyte panel. It evaluates the difference between measured and unmeasured electrical particles (ions or electrolytes) in the fluid portion of the blood.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
Fasting for 8-12 hours (no food, only water) before sample collection may be required.