BUN & Creatinine Testing for CT Contrast Procedures
Your doctor may prescribe a test called a Computed Tomography scan (CT scan) to find out how well your kidneys and liver are working. This test uses x-rays to look at your organs inside your body. Before you have a CT scan, your doctor may want to run tests to determine the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine in your system. These blood tests and the CT scan may help your doctor diagnose any kidney or liver problems.
Preapre for the Tests
Your doctor may ask you to refrain from eating high quantities of protein before your blood is drawn for the tests. According to the Mayo Clinic, your liver breaks proteins down and the waste material urea is formed. Your kidneys break the urea down further to be expelled from your body. The efficiency of this process is measured in a BUN-to-creatinine ratio test. If you consume high amounts of protein before your blood test, your results may not be accurate.
How the Tests are Done
A BUN and creatinine level test is done through a simple blood test. Blood is drawn from your vein and sent to a lab for evaluation. The blood test is normally done within one month of your scheduled CT scan. During a CT scan you may receive an injection of an iodine contrast solution or given an oral contrast solution to drink that is used to make your organs easier to see in the scan. While lying on a large table you will be passed through a large, donut-shaped scanner that sends x-rays into your body. The scan is then sent to a radiologist for evaluation and the results are sent to your doctor.
Risks and Precautions
According to the Mayo Clinic, risks for a CT scan are very small. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the iodine contrast drug. If you have a pacemaker, insulin pump or other electronic implant device, you should tell your doctor before your CT scan because the scanner may interfere with its function. You should not have a CT scan if you are pregnant.
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