Urea is a waste product formed in the liver during protein metabolism.
It is carried in blood to the kidneys, where it is excreted in urine.
Elevated blood urea levels indicate impaired kidney function or increased protein breakdown.
Clinical uses include:
Assessing renal function.
Diagnosing acute or chronic kidney disease.
Monitoring patients with dehydration, high-protein diet, or liver disease.
Evaluating metabolic conditions affecting nitrogen balance.
The test is performed using a blood sample.