Clinical approach to advanced renal function testing in dogs and cats

Abstract

Serum creatinine concentration is insensitive for detecting kidney injury and does not assist in differentiation between glomerular versus tubular damage. Advanced renal function tests, including glomerular filtration rate testing, determining fractional excretion of electrolytes, and assay of urine biomarkers, may allow earlier detection of reduced renal function mass, differentiation of renal from non-renal causes of azotemia, and assist with localization of damage. This article reviews the principles, indications, and limitations of these tests and describes their use in sample clinical scenarios.

Keywords: Biomarkers; Fractional excretion; Glomerular filtration rate; Microalbuminuria; Urine; γ-Glutamyl transpeptidase.