Urea

Understanding the marker

Urea is formed in the liver from protein breakdown and is excreted by the kidneys. The value is affected by protein intake, hydration, and kidney function.

Urea is influenced by kidney clearance, hydration and protein metabolism. It can complement a clinical assessment but does not replace eGFR or urine albumin assessment for chronic kidney disease.

What does high Urea mean?

High urea can reflect changes in kidney filtering, fluid balance or protein breakdown. Creatinine, eGFR and the clinical context help distinguish these influences.

What does low Urea mean?

Low urea can reflect differences in protein intake or processing and fluid balance. It is assessed with nutrition, liver and kidney results rather than used alone to identify a cause.