Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
A kidney function test that measures urea nitrogen in blood—often done with creatinine for a complete kidney assessment.
Test Information
Reports In
Same day (5-6 hours)
Parameters
1
Requisites
Blood Sample
Sample Type
Blood
Measures
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)—the amount of nitrogen from urea in the blood. Urea is a waste product of protein metabolism that kidneys filter out.
Identifies
Kidney dysfunction (elevated BUN), dehydration, high protein intake, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver disease (low BUN), and certain medications' effects on kidneys.
What is the BUN Test?
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) measures the amount of urea nitrogen in your blood. Urea is a waste product formed when your body breaks down protein, and it's filtered out by the kidneys. High BUN indicates that your kidneys may not be filtering efficiently, or that you're dehydrated or consuming very high amounts of protein.
Why Should You Take This Test?
Kidney disease is common in diabetics and hypertensives—both highly prevalent in India. BUN (with creatinine) is a simple, cost-effective way to screen kidney function. Early detection allows lifestyle and medication changes to slow progression.
Who Should Get Tested?
Kidney Disease Patients
Regular monitoring of kidney waste clearance.
Dehydration Assessment
BUN rises with dehydration.
High-Protein Diet
To check if kidneys are handling the protein load.
On Nephrotoxic Drugs
Medications that may affect kidney function.
Warning Signs — When Should You Get This Test?
Common Conditions Detected
Frequently Booked Together
Tests commonly ordered alongside BUN for a complete picture
Creatinine
BUN:Creatinine ratio helps differentiate causes of kidney dysfunction
Electrolytes
Kidney dysfunction often causes electrolyte imbalances
RFT
Complete kidney function assessment
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