Name of the Procedure:

Cystatin C Test, Serum Cystatin C, CysC

Summary

The Cystatin C test is a blood test used to measure the level of cystatin C, a protein produced by cells in the body. This test helps assess kidney function and is often used as an alternative or complement to creatinine-based tests.

Purpose

The test primarily addresses the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney function and early detection of kidney disease. It aims to provide a more accurate assessment of kidney health, particularly in cases where creatinine-based tests may be less reliable.

Indications

• Symptoms of kidney dysfunction: edema, fatigue, high blood pressure
• Patients with a family history of kidney disease
• Conditions known to affect kidney function: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease
• Monitoring kidney function in patients on nephrotoxic medications

Preparation

• Generally, no fasting is required.
• Inform the healthcare provider of all medications and supplements being taken.
• No specific pre-test diagnostics are typically needed.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample, typically from a vein in your arm.
2. Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample is sent to a lab where the level of cystatin C is measured using specialized techniques.

No anesthesia or sedation is needed for this simple blood draw.

Duration

The blood draw takes only a few minutes. Results are generally available within a few days.

Setting

The test is typically performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse to draw the blood sample
• Laboratory technician or medical technologist to analyze the sample
• Physician to interpret the results

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include bruising or infection at the puncture site.
• Rarely, patients may feel lightheaded or faint.

Benefits

• Provides a more accurate assessment of kidney function than some other tests.
• Early detection of kidney disease can lead to timely intervention and management.
• Particularly useful for patients where creatinine levels may be influenced by other factors (e.g., muscle mass, diet).

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.

Alternatives

• Creatinine blood test: Less expensive but less accurate in certain populations.
• Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) test: Often used in conjunction with creatinine measurement.
• Urine albumin test: Used to detect protein in the urine as an indicator of kidney damage.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or pain from the needle stick.
• Brief bruising or soreness at the puncture site, managed with a cold pack and over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.
• Generally, minimal disruption to daily life.