Which tests might a nephrologist request to assess kidney function?

To assess kidney function, a nephrologist would primarily rely on blood and urine tests. These tests provide critical information regarding how well the kidneys are functioning. For example, blood tests can measure levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which help estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), an essential indicator of kidney function. Elevated levels of these substances suggest that the kidneys are not filtering waste effectively.

Urine tests can further reveal important details about kidney health, such as the presence of protein, blood, or other abnormalities that could indicate issues like glomerulonephritis or nephrotic syndrome. Collectively, these tests offer direct insights into the kidneys' ability to filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, making them fundamental in the evaluation of renal health.

In contrast, imaging studies like X-rays and neuroimaging scans do not directly inform about kidney function and are utilized for different diagnostic purposes. Cardiac catheterization, on the other hand, is related to heart function rather than kidney assessment. Therefore, the most appropriate choice for assessing kidney function directly is through blood and urine tests.