Cystatin C filtration and uptake
Biomarker library
Kidney Health
Cystatin C
Cystatin C is a small protein made by every cell in your body at a steady rate and filtered by the kidneys, which makes it a second, independent gauge of kidney function.
Measured in your health assessment, with a doctor to explain your result. Book yours
Why it matters
Unlike creatinine, it doesn't depend on muscle mass or diet, so it gives a fairer estimate for very muscular or very slight people. Combining the two gives the most accurate eGFR.
What a result can mean
Lower than the range
A low level is generally a sign of good kidney filtering.
Higher than the range
A higher level suggests reduced kidney filtering. An overactive thyroid, high-dose steroids and inflammation can also raise it.
What can help
As with creatinine, protecting your kidneys means controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, not smoking and avoiding regular anti-inflammatory painkillers.
Read it with
NoteGeneral educational illustration. Colours, sizes and movement are simplified. This is not a scan or a simulation of your body. General information, not personal medical advice: a doctor reads your own results with your history.
Know your cystatin C.
Measured in your health assessment and explained by the doctor who reviews your results.