Which of the following tests can indicate kidney damage?

The serum creatinine test is a primary indicator of kidney function and can reveal the extent of kidney damage. Creatinine is a waste product produced from muscle metabolism and is usually eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are functioning properly, creatinine levels in the blood remain relatively stable. However, when kidney function is compromised, typically due to damage, the serum creatinine levels will rise. Therefore, measuring serum creatinine can directly reflect the kidneys' ability to filter and excrete this waste product, making it an essential test for assessing kidney health.

In contrast, blood glucose tests are primarily used to diagnose and monitor diabetes, while a lipid panel assesses blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, offering insights into cardiovascular health rather than renal function. A complete metabolic panel includes tests for various substances in the blood, several of which may indirectly relate to kidney function but do not specifically target kidney damage as effectively as the serum creatinine test.