SDMA (Early Kidney Marker)

About this test

SDMA rises when kidney function has dropped by around 40 %, while creatinine often stays normal until about three quarters is lost. Muscle loss doesn't hide it, which makes it useful in older and thin pets, and in cats, where kidney disease is very common with age.

What it measures

• SDMA (symmetric dimethylarginine)

Good to know

• A raised SDMA is followed up with a urine test and a recheck, to see whether the change is lasting.