Which laboratory value is most indicative of kidney function?

The serum creatinine level is most indicative of kidney function because creatinine is a waste product generated from muscle metabolism, and it is primarily removed from the blood by the kidneys. Therefore, the level of creatinine in the bloodstream provides a clear indication of how well the kidneys are filtering and eliminating waste. Elevated levels of serum creatinine often signal impaired kidney function, making it a key parameter in assessing renal health.

While blood urea nitrogen (BUN) can also indicate kidney function, it can be influenced by many other factors, such as hydration status, diet, and liver function, which can complicate its interpretation. The electrolyte panel, while important for assessing metabolic status and kidney function indirectly, does not directly measure kidney performance. Similarly, a complete blood count (CBC) provides information about overall health and the presence of anemia but lacks specific insights into renal function.