What is an RFT blood test and how do I order one?

Time to read 4 min

An RFT blood test refers to a complete renal function test, that determines the effectiveness of your kidneys. It is a primary examination of your excretory system and the output of your kidneys as a function of the system.


A renal function test RFT or a kidney function test RFT will be able to determine the likelihood that you have kidney disease or impaired functioning in the kidneys. It is one of the first few tests recommended when patients experience the symptoms of kidney issues.


Tests may include a blood urea nitrogen BUN examination, glomerular filtration rate, and other relevant assessments. These ratios and levels in the blood are relevant to the test of the kidneys, and are collectively checked as renal function tests.

Main tests included in an RFT panel

The complete RFT panel may include tests such as urinalysis, microalbumin, BUN, ACR, creatinine testing, and GFR. These testes are designed to check for the presence of kidney disease as well as analyse the complete output of your kidney function.


By testing for specific markers, the level of excretion performed by the kidneys can be checked clearly. Through the analysis of these markers, your doctors can also analyse the effectiveness of the filtration of blood, such as in the case of BUN wherein high levels of urea nitrogen can indicate a core problem.

When should I get an RFT blood test?

There are multiple instances when you should get regular RFTs done, some of which include the following.

When you have painful urination

If you have dysuria or painful urination issues, then getting regular RFT tests is key. You need to know how effectively your kidneys are able to process waste and remove it from your body. You can also learn more about the effectiveness of treatment protocols.

As a part of overall monitoring

You should get an RFT test done as a part of managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic conditions. This can help you understand the impact of your illness on your renal function, as there shouldn't be a risk of ineffective waste removal.

When you start experiencing symptoms

When you begin to notice the critical symptoms, such as blood in urine, low vitality, increased urination, and itchy skin, you should get a complete RFT panel done. You can know more about why you are experiencing the major symptoms.

Included in a complete health package

You should have your kidney function included in your annual health examination packages. This is especially more important when you are aging and you need to focus on your organ performance as a core part of your testing.

What are the major symptoms of kidney disease I should watch out for?

It is important to watch out for the major symptoms of kidney disease, so that you are better prepared. If you are experiencing one or multiple of these symptoms, then you should get an RFT test done immediately.

Increased thirst

A sensation of heightened thirst, can be a primary signal that there may be an issue with your kidneys. You should get a checkup done with an RFT so that you're sure about why you are consuming excess water.



More frequent urination

If you find yourself using the restroom more frequently than normal for more than a week, then you may have an issue with proper kidney function. You should get a checkup done to review your kidney function processes.

Chronic fatigue

Due to the lack of effective waste removal processes via your endocrine system, there may be problems with metabolism and fatigue. You may experience long periods of tiredness and low-energy.

Issues with quality sleep

If you have problems with quality sleep, and you have tested other parameters, then consider getting an RFT panel done as well. If your body is struggling to manage waste removal and maintain metabolic health, then your sleep may be compromised.

Itchy and dry skin

Dry skin could indicate an issue with mineral processing in the body, as well as waste removal complications. If you have several spots where you have dry and itchy skin, then you should consider getting an RFT panel done.



Blood in urine or vomit

The moment you find spots of blood in your urine or vomit, you should get tested immediately. This is especially true if you find blood in more than one occasion over a 24 hour period.

Painful cramping

Muscle cramps and joint pain can be important symptoms of kidney issues, as there may be complications with excreting waste properly. You may also experience stiffness and chronic aches as a part of the condition.

Difficulty concentrating

You may also find it difficult to focus and concentrate on tasks, which can last for weeks on end. You may also experience puffiness around the eyes, which is another vital sign that you shouldn't ignore.



How to order an RFT blood test

The best way to order an RFT blood test is to buy one online. By using an online healthcare platform for your testing requirements, you can get the best price and maximum convenience. You can book a home test for your RFT blood test, and get complete convenience of home sample collection.


Through MyDiagnostics, you can buy the full body checkup package which includes kidney, lipids, iron, vitamins, and minerals, among other parameters. This provides a more comprehensive overview of your kidney panel, along with other markers to check as well.


* Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s). 

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