Why is this procedure done?
A cystatin C test is used to check how your kidneys are working. Cystatin C is a protein that is in almost all of your cells. It is found in many of your body fluids including your blood. Your kidneys filter and break down cystatin C at a constant rate. High cystatin C levels in your blood may be a sign that your kidneys are not working well. ‚
Cystatin C is not affected by your size, age, race, or diet. Some doctors think it is a better measure of how well your kidneys are working than other tests. ‚
Your doctor may order this test: ‚
- To check how well your kidneys are working
- If your doctor thinks you are at risk for problems after a heart attack
- When you have a problem with your liver, are very heavy, or underweight
- Go along with other tests like creatinine level, creatinine clearance, or blood urea nitrogen
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means your kidneys are likely working in a normal way.
- If the results are not normal, you may have a problem with your kidneys.
- Your doctor may order another test to verify the diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- No special preparations are needed for this procedure.
- Tell your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood to see your cystatin C level. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your kidneys. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/cystatin-c/tab/glance/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚