Bun Creatinine Ratio

Description

The BUN Creatinine Ratio is a calculation derived from measuring blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels in the blood. Both BUN and creatinine are waste products normally filtered out by the kidneys. This ratio is a valuable tool in assessing kidney function and distinguishing between kidney and non-kidney causes of elevated BUN. A normal BUN-to-creatinine ratio typically ranges from 10:1 to 20:1. Elevated ratios may indicate dehydration, gastrointestinal bleeding, or certain medications, while lower ratios might suggest liver disease or malnutrition. In kidney disease, both BUN and creatinine tend to rise, but often not proportionally. This test is particularly useful in evaluating acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and assessing overall hydration status. It’s often interpreted alongside other renal function tests and clinical findings for a comprehensive assessment of kidney health.