CYSTATIN C Detail

The Cystatin C test is a blood test that measures the level of Cystatin C, a small protein produced by all nucleated cells in the body. It is filtered from the blood by the kidneys and serves as a sensitive marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) — a key indicator of kidney function.

Unlike serum creatinine, Cystatin C levels are less affected by muscle mass, age, or gender, making it especially useful in elderly individuals, children, or those with low muscle mass. It helps in the early detection of kidney dysfunction, even before symptoms appear or changes in creatinine levels are seen.

This test is often used when a more accurate estimation of GFR is needed or when creatinine-based tests are inconclusive.