KIM-1 urine test in Chiswick

What the test measures

KIM-1 is a protein that is almost absent from healthy kidneys. When the cells lining the proximal tubules are injured, for example by reduced blood flow, some medicines or toxins, they produce KIM-1 and part of it is shed into the urine. Because it rises early after tubular injury, researchers have studied it as a possible early sign of acute kidney injury and of longer-term kidney damage.

KIM-1 is not a routine NHS test, and kidney health in everyday practice is assessed with eGFR, creatinine and a urine albumin to creatinine ratio. Urine KIM-1 is best seen as a specialist marker that may add detail when read with those established tests and an assessment of your overall health.

The price includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You are monitoring your kidney health and want extra information about the tubules.
• You take a medicine that can affect the kidneys and want to review kidney markers with a practitioner.
• Your eGFR or urine albumin result has raised questions you would like to explore.
• You are having a detailed health review that includes specialist kidney markers.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your urine KIM-1 value with the laboratory reference range. A level within range suggests no marked tubular stress on the day of testing. A raised level can be seen with tubular injury, but levels can also be affected by urine concentration, infection and other kidney conditions.

The result is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis, and is interpreted alongside your blood kidney markers and medical history. If it is raised, your practitioner may suggest a repeat sample and a review with your GP. Passing much less urine than usual, swelling of the legs or feeling very unwell need prompt medical attention through NHS 111 or A&E.

Preparing for your test

Normal eating and drinking are fine. Provide a midstream urine sample into a sterile pot, preferably the first or second sample of the morning so it is not too dilute. Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours beforehand, and let us know if you have symptoms of a urine infection, are on your period, or take anti-inflammatory painkillers regularly.

Standard checks on our kidney function tests page include eGFR and the urine albumin to creatinine ratio, while Urinalysis screens for blood, protein and infection. KIM-1 is also part of Omnia Signature. See every blood test and price in Chiswick in one place.

Questions

How much is a KIM-1 urine test in Chiswick?

The KIM-1 urine test costs £189 at Omnia Lifestyle. This includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Is KIM-1 better than eGFR?

They measure different things. eGFR estimates filtration and is the standard measure of kidney function, while KIM-1 reflects tubular injury. KIM-1 adds detail but does not replace eGFR.

Can KIM-1 diagnose chronic kidney disease?

No. Chronic kidney disease is diagnosed using eGFR and urine albumin over time, with clinical review.

How does KIM-1 compare with urine cystatin C?

Both are urine markers of tubular stress. KIM-1 is released by injured tubule cells, while urine cystatin C rises when the tubules do not reabsorb it.