Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
7
Duration
10 min
Results
3 days
Assesses kidney filtration function and electrolyte balance — the minerals that govern nerve conduction, muscle contraction, heart rhythm, and fluid balance. Covers creatinine, eGFR, urea, sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. Chronic kidney disease affects 1 in 10 Australians and is almost entirely asymptomatic until advanced stages, making regular screening the only reliable detection method.
The kidneys filter approximately 180 litres of blood per day, regulate fluid balance, maintain electrolyte concentrations, control blood pressure via the renin-angiotensin system, and eliminate waste products. Chronic kidney disease affects an estimated 1 in 10 Australians and is almost entirely asymptomatic until advanced stages — by the time symptoms appear, significant and often irreversible damage has occurred. This panel measures seven key markers of kidney function and electrolyte balance. Creatinine and eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) assess how effectively the kidneys are filtering waste. Urea provides additional information about protein metabolism and kidney clearance. Sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate reflect the electrolyte balance that governs nerve conduction, muscle contraction (including the heart), fluid distribution, and acid-base regulation. Electrolyte imbalances — particularly potassium — can be dangerous. Hyperkalaemia (high potassium) and hypokalaemia (low potassium) both affect cardiac rhythm and can be life-threatening if severe. These imbalances are common in people taking certain medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, NSAIDs), those with diabetes (a leading cause of kidney disease), and older adults with declining renal function. No fasting is required. ClearLabs delivers results within 2-3 business days through the digital dashboard, with each marker displayed against optimal ranges. This panel is particularly recommended for anyone taking medications that affect kidney function, those with diabetes or hypertension, and as part of a routine annual health screen for adults over 40.
Key Details
- Markers
- 7 kidney/electrolyte
- Focus
- Kidney function
- Collection fee
- +A$20
Who Is This For?
Kidney health screening, medication monitoring (NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors), diabetes complication screening, dehydration assessment
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required.
Panel Categories
Biomarkers Tested
7A key component of the body's acid-base buffering system. Bicarbonate levels reflect the balance between acids and bases in the blood. Abnormal values help diagnose metabolic acidosis or alkalosis.
The most abundant mineral in the body, essential for bone health, muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood clotting. Blood calcium is tightly regulated by parathyroid hormone and vitamin D. Abnormal levels can indicate parathyroid disorders.
An electrolyte that works with sodium to maintain fluid balance, blood pressure, and acid-base balance. Chloride abnormalities often accompany sodium abnormalities and can indicate dehydration, kidney disease, or metabolic disorders.
Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions including energy production, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Magnesium deficiency is common and associated with muscle cramps, anxiety, insomnia, and increased cardiovascular risk.
Imbalances in gut pH influence short-chain fatty acid production and their effects.
A critical electrolyte for heart rhythm, muscle contractions, and nerve function. Both high and low potassium can cause dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Levels are influenced by kidney function, medications, and diet.
The primary electrolyte regulating fluid balance and blood pressure. Sodium is essential for nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Abnormal levels can cause confusion, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 10 min
- Results
- 3 days