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Serum cystatin C as a marker to identify patients with moderately impaired renal function

H Peiris1, L G Chandrasena, R D Lanerolle

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.

Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry : IJCB
|October 30, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Serum cystatin C shows promise as a biomarker for identifying moderately impaired kidney function. This study found it effective in a single blood sample, offering a potential diagnostic tool for renal health.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Nephrology
  • Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Cystatin C, a low molecular weight protein, is produced by nucleated cells and cleared via glomerular filtration.
  • Its characteristics make it a potential marker for assessing renal function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate serum cystatin C as a marker for identifying patients with moderately impaired renal function.
  • To compare cystatin C-based glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimation against the gold standard creatinine clearance.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional descriptive study involving fifty subjects aged 12-74 years.
  • Simultaneous measurement of serum cystatin C and 24-hour creatinine clearance.
  • Calculation of predicted GFR using serum cystatin C levels.

Main Results:

  • Serum cystatin C demonstrated a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 68% in identifying moderately impaired renal function.
  • A diagnostic cut-off value of 1.25 mg/L for cystatin C was identified.
  • This method allows for renal function assessment using a single random blood sample.

Conclusions:

  • Serum cystatin C is a valuable tool for identifying patients with moderately impaired renal function.
  • It offers a convenient alternative to traditional methods requiring 24-hour urine collection.
  • Further research may solidify its role in routine renal function monitoring.

Keywords:
CreatinineCystatin CGlomerular Filtration RateModerately Impaired Renal Function

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