[General examination and renal function test for tubulointerstitial nephropathy]

This paper deals with the examination of urine and blood specimens and the renal function test specifically as they relate to the diagnosis of tubulointerstitial nephropathy. The diagnostic significance of urinalysis, measurement of creatinine, creatinine clearance, fractional excretion, beta 2-microglobulin, alpha 1-microglobulin, N-acetyl-glucosaminidase and free water clearance, the Fishberg concentration test and the ammonium chloride loading test is discussed in the evaluation of tubulointerstitial disorder. Physicians must choose the most appropriate ones among the many examinations and tests also from the viewpoints of minimal invasiveness and cost-effectiveness.