BUN stands for Blood Urea Nitrogen.
What does BUN mean?
a blood test that reflects kidney function
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen, a measure of the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from urea, a waste product made by the liver and removed by the kidneys. A BUN test helps assess kidney function and hydration. A high BUN can point to reduced kidney function, dehydration, or a high protein load, while a low BUN is less common. It is often interpreted alongside creatinine, and the BUN to creatinine ratio can help find the cause of a problem.
When is BUN used?
BUN is a standard part of basic metabolic panels in primary care, emergency, and hospital settings.
Frequently asked questions
What does BUN stand for?
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen, a blood test that reflects kidney function.
What does a high BUN mean?
A high BUN can indicate reduced kidney function, dehydration, or a high protein load.
Why is BUN measured with creatinine?
The BUN to creatinine ratio helps identify the cause of a kidney or hydration problem.
Is BUN part of routine blood tests?
Yes. It is a standard part of the basic metabolic panel ordered in many settings.