Which of the following is commonly measured to assess kidney function?

Creatinine levels are a key indicator of kidney function because creatinine is a waste product that is produced by the muscles as they break down creatine, an important substance for energy metabolism. Under normal circumstances, the kidneys filter creatinine from the blood and excrete it in urine.

When kidney function is compromised, the ability to remove creatinine decreases, leading to elevated levels of creatinine in the bloodstream. Therefore, measuring creatinine levels provides insight into how effectively the kidneys are performing their filtration role.

This makes creatinine a vital component in assessing renal health, often used in conjunction with other tests to gauge the overall function of the kidneys, such as the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Regular monitoring of creatinine levels can help in the early detection of kidney problems, guiding further diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.