Kidney function tests in Mombasa

In Swahili, people sometimes ask for a kipimo cha figo, a kidney test. The phrase can mean several different tests, so it helps to know what each one shows.

Which tests check the kidneys?

• Creatinine blood test: measures a waste product that healthy kidneys filter out. It is used to calculate eGFR.
• eGFR: the estimated glomerular filtration rate. It is worked out from creatinine, age and sex using a validated equation, and estimates how well your kidneys filter. Many laboratories print it on the creatinine report. If yours does not, ask for it.
• Urine ACR: the albumin-to-creatinine ratio. It measures small amounts of protein leaking into the urine, often before other signs appear. It is different from the protein line on a urine dipstick.
• Urinalysis: a general urine test that looks for protein, blood, sugar and signs of infection.
• Electrolytes: blood levels of minerals such as sodium and potassium, often done with creatinine as part of a "U&E" (urea and electrolytes) panel.
• Kidney ultrasound: a scan that shows the size and shape of the kidneys and checks for blockage. This is done at an imaging centre or hospital radiology department.

Kidney health is assessed using eGFR and ACR together, and over time. Chronic kidney disease is only diagnosed when changes last more than 3 months. One abnormal result is a reason to follow up, not a diagnosis. See kidney function tests explained for more.

Who is usually advised to have kidney tests?

Doctors commonly check kidney function in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, a family history of kidney disease, or who take medicines that can affect the kidneys. If you have diabetes, see kidney tests for diabetes.

How to choose a laboratory in Mombasa

These objective points can help you compare laboratories:

• Accreditation. Medical laboratories in Kenya can be accredited to the international standard ISO 15189 by the Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS). Accreditation means the laboratory's quality systems have been independently assessed. You can ask a laboratory whether it is accredited and for which tests.
• eGFR and ACR on offer. Check that the laboratory reports eGFR with creatinine, and that it offers a true urine ACR test, not only a dipstick.
• Turnaround time. Ask when results will be ready and how you will receive them: printed, by SMS, email or through your doctor.
• Cost transparency. Ask for the price of each test before sampling, and whether SHA or your insurance is accepted.
• Location and hours. Laboratories are found across Mombasa Island, Nyali, Bamburi, Likoni and Changamwe. Choose one you can return to easily.
• Consistency. If you are monitoring results over time, using the same laboratory where possible makes trends easier to compare, because methods and reference ranges can differ between laboratories.

Before your test

• Ask whether any preparation is needed. Most kidney tests do not need fasting, but other tests done at the same time might.
• For urine ACR, the laboratory may ask for an early-morning sample. Follow their instructions.
• Tell the laboratory or your doctor if you have recently had heavy exercise, a fever or a urine infection, as these can affect some results.
• Keep taking your usual medicines unless a doctor has advised otherwise.

Do you need a doctor's request?

Many laboratories in Mombasa accept people without a doctor's request form for basic blood tests. Imaging centres often ask for a request from a doctor before an ultrasound. Even where a request is not needed, a doctor can make sure you get the right tests and can explain the results, so you do not end up testing twice.

After you get your results

Keep a copy of every result with its date. The reference range printed on your report is specific to that laboratory, and creatinine ranges vary by age, sex and muscle mass. Take your results to a GP, physician or nephrologist to discuss them. If you would like to understand the report first, try our I have a test result page.

Using our directory and enquiry service

The verified provider directory lists kidney care providers in Mombasa whose details we have checked. The provider verification page explains what we check and how often. We do not rank providers.

If you would like help, the Find kidney care form asks only for the type of care, your area, how soon you need it and how to contact you. It does not ask for your test results or medical history. With your consent, your enquiry is shared with one matched verified provider.

Common questions

What is the kidney function test called at the lab?

Ask for creatinine with eGFR (a blood test) and a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). Some laboratories group creatinine with electrolytes as a U&E or renal function panel.

How do I check if a lab in Mombasa is accredited?

Ask the laboratory whether it holds ISO 15189 accreditation from the Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS) and for which tests. KENAS publishes information about accredited bodies on its website.

Can I get a kidney test without seeing a doctor first?

Many laboratories accept walk-in requests for basic blood tests. It is still best to have a doctor choose the tests and explain the results.

This page gives general information about kidney care services in Mombasa. It is not a diagnosis, and it is not a recommendation of any individual provider. Being listed in our directory is not an endorsement. Your results should be interpreted by a doctor who knows your history. Medical disclaimer.