SEMARANG – Laboratory examinations can detect kidney disorders at an early stage, even before symptoms appear. Kidney disease often develops without causing obvious symptoms in its initial stages. This condition, commonly known as a silent disease, means that many patients only become aware of kidney problems after the organ’s function has already declined significantly.
dr. Villa Sekar Cita, Sp.PK., a lecturer in the Clinical Pathology Specialist Medical Education Program (PPDS) at the Faculty of Medicine Universitas Diponegoro (FK Undip), emphasized that the kidneys are vital organs with numerous essential functions. In addition to filtering waste products and toxins from the blood for excretion through urine, the kidneys help maintain the body’s fluid balance, regulate blood pressure, and support the production of red blood cells.
“Kidney disease does not only affect older adults. Young people who appear healthy can also experience kidney disorders, especially if they have unhealthy lifestyles,” said dr. Villa during the FK Undip Podcast on May 21, 2026.
As a clinical pathology specialist, dr. Villa explained that laboratory testing plays a crucial role in identifying kidney disorders before symptoms emerge. Kidney function can be assessed through both blood and urine samples.
Through blood tests, physicians can measure creatinine and urea levels, which are then used to calculate the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), an indicator of the kidneys’ ability to filter blood. Meanwhile, urine tests can detect the presence of protein, blood, or glucose, substances that should not normally be found in healthy urine.
“Protein in the urine can even be an early sign of kidney damage, despite other test results still appearing normal,” she explained.
According to dr. Villa, many cases of kidney disorders are first identified during routine medical check-ups (MCUs), even when individuals do not experience any symptoms. This highlights the importance of regular health screenings in detecting declining kidney function at an early stage.
Although kidney disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages, several warning signs should not be ignored. These include persistent fatigue, swelling of the face or legs, frequent nighttime urination, foamy urine that does not quickly disappear, and high blood pressure that is difficult to control.
“If these symptoms occur, it is advisable to consult a physician and undergo further examination as soon as possible,” she said.
Regular kidney function screening is strongly recommended for individuals with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, a family history of kidney disease, active smoking, or long-term use of certain medications. However, even those who feel healthy are encouraged to undergo periodic health examinations.
“For healthy adults, a medical check-up should be performed at least once a year, particularly for those approaching or entering their 40s,” she added.
Through early detection and routine laboratory testing, the public is expected to recognize kidney disorders sooner, helping to prevent serious complications and maintain a better quality of life. (FK Undip Public Relations/Saradita/Erman)
