How Is Renal Failure Diagnosed?

In addition to a physical examination and complete medical history, diagnostic procedures for renal failure may include the following:

• Blood tests(to determine blood cell counts, electrolyte levels, and kidney function)
• Urine tests
• Chest x-ray-a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film
• Bone scan-a nuclear imaging method to evaluate any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in the joints; to detect bone diseases and tumors; and to determine the cause of bone pain or inflammation
• Renal ultrasound (also called sonography)-a noninvasive test in which a transducer passes over the kidney, producing sound waves that bounce off the kidney, and transmits a picture of the organ to a video screen; the test is used to determine the size and shape of the kidney, and to detect a mass, kidney stone, cyst, or other obstruction or abnormalities
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)-a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias), and detects heart muscle damage
• Kidney biopsy-a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the body for examination under a microscope to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present