The Cystatin C Test measures the level of cystatin C, a protein produced by all cells in the body and filtered by the kidneys. It is used to assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney disease, often serving as an alternative to creatinine-based tests for estimating the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
Purpose of the Test
The test is primarily used for:
- Early detection of kidney disease, especially in individuals with risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- More accurate estimation of GFR, especially in older adults, critically ill patients, or those with muscle-wasting conditions where creatinine-based tests may be unreliable.
- Monitoring kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Cystatin C Test
