What is the main indicator measured by BUN and creatinine levels?

BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and creatinine levels are primarily indicators of kidney health. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood, and these two measurements reflect how well the kidneys are functioning. BUN measures the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from urea, a waste product formed in the liver when protein is broken down. Creatinine is a waste product produced from muscle metabolism and is usually produced at a fairly constant rate by the body.

Elevated levels of BUN and creatinine can indicate impaired kidney function, as the kidneys may not be filtering these substances effectively. Regular monitoring of these levels can help in the early detection and management of kidney disease. Understanding these indicators is essential for healthcare professionals in assessing kidney performance and diagnosing potential issues.

While other options relate to different body systems, they do not directly involve the measurements provided by BUN and creatinine, making them less relevant in this specific context.