Bun test

[surf18]

I believe is a kidney function test
My bun test has increased from 21,24, to 29 test in feb
Dr didn't mention it. Cause for concern? I'm on truvada
Creatine test normal

[newt]

Hmm...

BUN = blood urea nitrogen

This is a blood creatinine: urea nitrogen ratio and 20:1 would be the top of normal range, unless you's older in which case it might be higher. << how much older is a moot point since the reference ranges are usually set on students etc (for $15 a throw).

An increased ratio may be from:

- decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as with congestive heart failure or dehydration << common dehydration.
- increased protein in your diet, including the day before/day of the test.
- gastrointestinal bleeding << you'd know about this by other means.
- being older.

The test on it's own is not conclusive and means further investigation is needed. It is variable.

The kingpin of kidney tests is glomerular filtration rate, or, a close second, estimated glomerular filtration rate. Combined with other tests, eg C reactive protein, liver function, blood creatinine, urine protein and urine glucose etc, this can sort out if it is a kidney problem (in which case attention to tenofovir/Truvada dose or a switch may be sensible) or sommat else.

Hope this helps.

- matt

[surf18]

Thank you!