99mTc-DTPA Renal Clearance (Plasma)
This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste products from your blood using a radioactive tracer. It helps assess kidney function and blood flow through the kidneys over time.
["Evaluates kidney function and blood flow with a specialized nuclear medicine test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43666-7
- Short code
- NM Kidney+ves Vs bld flow W Tc99mGHA IV
- Synonyms
- NM Kidney+ves Vs bld flow W Tc99mGHA IV
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- nm
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test involves injecting a small amount of a radioactive substance (99mTc-DTPA) into your bloodstream. This tracer naturally passes through your kidneys and is excreted in urine. Special cameras detect how quickly the tracer leaves your blood, indicating how efficiently your kidneys filter waste.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted to inject the tracer, followed by imaging scans. You’ll need to stay still during imaging to ensure accurate results.
How the Results Are Used
Results help doctors diagnose kidney conditions, such as blockages, infections, or reduced kidney function. It can also guide treatment decisions for conditions like kidney stones or vascular diseases.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to check kidney function in people with chronic kidney disease, urinary tract blockages, or those undergoing treatments that may affect kidney health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test provides critical insights into how well your kidneys are processing blood and filtering waste. Abnormal results may indicate issues like reduced kidney perfusion, structural problems, or systemic conditions affecting circulation. Early detection helps manage conditions before they worsen.
Short name
Renal Function Test
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the typical risks or side effects?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy