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Cystatin C

Also known as Serum cystatin C test, Cystatin clearance test

₹1170~~₹1300~~ 10% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Earliest reports in

48 hours

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Cystatin C

What is Cystatin C?

The Cystatin C is a blood test that measures the level of cystatin C, a protein produced by all body cells and excreted by the kidneys. This test helps doctors see how well your kidneys are working, especially if other tests like creatinine are unreliable.

Cystatin C is a protein made by almost all cells in the body. Its level in the blood can show how well your kidneys are working. Cystatin C is more accurate than other kidney tests such as creatinine as it is less influenced by muscle mass. This makes it a useful kidney marker for people with low muscle mass, like older adults, amputees, or those with muscle problems.

The Cystatin C test is often suggested when a doctor suspects kidney problems. However, the typical kidney tests, such as creatinine or creatinine clearance, may not provide a clear picture. It is also done when there are symptoms indicating kidney issues, such as fatigue, swollen ankles, feet, and hands, changes in urine output, unexplained weight loss, etc. It can also be done if there are risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease. Additionally, it is used to monitor kidney health in individual undergoing treatments that may affect the kidneys.

Elevated levels of cystatin C may indicate that the kidneys are not functioning properly, as they are unable to filter it efficiently. This can be an early warning sign of kidney disease such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI), often before other markers, like creatinine, show significant changes.

No special preparation is required for this test. Inform the doctor about all the medications or supplements being taken as they might affect the test results.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition and formulate an overall treatment plan. They may suggest lifestyle recommendations and medications if required to manage your condition.

What is Cystatin C used for?

The Cystatin C test is done:

To assess how well your kidneys are functioning.
As an early detection marker for kidney disease
To identify kidney problems in individuals with risks like obesity, diabetes, or family history.
To keep track of kidney health in individuals who already have kidney issues or are getting treatment.
To give a more accurate result when other tests, like creatinine, might not be reliable.

What does Cystatin C measure?

The Cystatin C test measures the amount of cystatin C. It is a protein produced by all nucleated cells in the body. The kidneys filter cystatin C from the blood. Its level in the blood can help estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a key indicator of kidney health. Higher than normal levels of cystatin C suggest that the kidneys are not filtering the protein efficiently. This indicates potential kidney dysfunction. This test is more sensitive than creatinine for detecting early kidney disease. It is especially useful for patients with unusual body types (such as those who are malnourished, practice a vegetarian diet, have amputated limbs, or have reduced muscle mass) or those at higher risk for kidney problems.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cystatin C

Q. What is the Cystatin C test?

The Cystatin C test measures the level of cystatin C. It is a protein produced by all cells in the body. This test helps check how well your kidneys are working, especially in detecting early kidney problems before other tests, like creatinine, are unreliable.

Q. Why is the Cystatin C test important?

This test is important because it gives a more accurate picture of kidney health, especially when other kidney markers might not work well. It’s especially useful for older adults, those with low muscle mass, or people with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Q. What does an elevated cystatin C level indicate?

Elevated cystatin C levels in the blood may indicate that the kidneys are not functioning properly. This can be an early sign of kidney disease, including conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI).

Q. How is the Cystatin C test performed?

A trained professional will clean your skin and take a blood sample from a vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. Can the Cystatin C test be used to diagnose kidney disease?

The Cystatin C test can help identify early signs of kidney dysfunction. However, it is typically used alongside other tests and medical evaluations to diagnose kidney disease. Your doctor will interpret the test results in the context of your overall health and medical history.

Q. Are there any risks associated with the Cystatin C test?

No, the Cystatin C test is generally safe with minimal risks. You may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection, but serious complications are rare.

Q. Do I need to make any special preparations for the test?

No fasting is required for the Cystatin C test. However, it is essential to follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider.

Q. Can the Cystatin C test be used to monitor kidney disease?

Yes, the test is often used to track kidney function in people with kidney problems or those getting treatments that may affect the kidneys. It can track changes in kidney function over time and help doctors assess the effectiveness of treatment plans.

Q. Is the Cystatin C test the same as the creatinine test?

No, the Cystatin C test and the creatinine test are different. Both tests check kidney function, but creatinine levels can be affected by muscle mass, age, and diet. Cystatin C is less influenced by these factors, making it a more accurate test for some people, like older adults or those with less muscle mass.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories. Tata 1mg uses advanced technology and adheres to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

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