Common Tests for Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Common lab tests for differential diagnosis of chronic kidney disease as follows:

CT scan (computed tomography or CT scan)

CT scanning test will produce pictures for the insides of the body by combining X-ray facilities with computers. The test will show inside of organs, tissues and blood vessels more clearly than X- ray testing.

DMSA scan (technetium dimercaptosuccinic acid scan)

The test will find out the size, shape and position of the kidneys, thus helping for diagnosing problems within the kidneys. Radiopharmaceutical medicines are injected and then special pictures will be taken.

Kidney biopsy

A special section of kidney tissue is taken by inserting a special needle into the kidney. The examination is operated in the hospital when the patient is still asleep. Nephrologists will examine this part of kidney tissue to confirm whether there exists scarring within the kidneys. The test will indentify the pathological type of kidney disease and damage extent to the kidneys.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging scan)

MRI is to use magnet and radiofrequencies to produce pictures for the inside of the kidneys. The pictures can be viewed from all sides because they are produced in two to three dimensions.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is to use sounds to produce pictures of organs and create an image in computers. The test will indentify the size, shape and texture of the kidneys. It will indentify any abnormal structural change of the kidneys.

VCUG (voiding Cysto-Urethrogram)

VCUG is short for voiding Cysto-urethrogram test. The test will detect the size and shape of bladder, as well as its function in holding urine. The test will confirm whether renal reflux---meaning urine goes back to the kidneys, exists on the patient. The test is often operated in those who have experienced repeated urinary tract infections (UTI).

Mag 3 Scan

The test is operated to confirm how well each kidney is working. Before the test an intravenous catheter is placed into a vein and a urinary uretheter is also inserted to confirm that the urinary tract is empty. Lasix, a kind of medicine that promote more urine production is applied. The test will confirm the remaining renal functions when the kidneys are still making certain urine.