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Urea AT A GLANCE ON THIS PAGE
Also known as Blood urea nitrogen; BUN
What is being tested?
Why get tested?
The test
To evaluate kidney function and monitor the effectiveness of dialysis
Common questions
When to get tested?
Related information
Test is performed frequently as part of a panel to check kidney function and may be requested as part of a general check up (U&E)
Sample required? A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm
WHAT IS BEING TESTED? Urea is produced when protein is broken down by the body and products of the breakdown are combined in a non-toxic form as urea by the liver. Urea is then circulated in the blood to the kidneys where it is eliminated from the body. Healthy kidneys eliminate more than 90 per cent of the urea the body produces, so blood levels may indicate how well your kidneys are working.
How is the sample collected for testing? A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample? No test preparation is needed.
THE TEST How is it used? When is it requested? What does the test result mean? Is there anything else I should know?
COMMON QUESTIONS What other tests are used with urea to check how my kidneys are functioning? How does urea change with age? What happens to urea in pregnancy?
RELATED INFORMATION More on this site Tests: Creatinine, electrolytes, eGFR Conditions: Kidney disease
Elsewhere on the web RCPA Manual: urea Kidney Health Australia