Kidney Transplant Tests at University of Colorado Hospital
Kidney transplant patients may receive the following tests throughout the liver transplant process.
Common Kidney Transplant Tests
Blood Tests
Many different blood tests will be done to:
- Evaluate kidney function and disease
- Screen for viruses such as hepatitis
- Screen for problems in other organs such as your heart or liver
- Test for HIV and AIDS (required for any transplant)
Chest X-ray
An X-ray of the chest used to determine the health of your lungs, heart, blood vessels, diaphragm and upper spine.
Colonoscopy
A test that uses a long, flexible tube called an endoscope to examine inside the large intestine.
Dental Evaluation
All candidates need to have a dental evaluation. Infection of teeth and gums can be very serious and may cause an infection in the blood.
Heart Tests
Cardiac tests are scheduled for patients who have a long history of high blood pressure and/or heart problems. These might include:
- Echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart)
- Exercise stress test
- Cardiac catheterization
Mammogram (females over 40 years old only)
An X-ray of the breast used to detect and diagnose breast disease.
Pap Smear (females only)
All females need to have a pelvic exam and Pap smear prior to receiving a transplant. Sometimes the medications you take to prevent rejection can change your Pap smear. It is important to make sure your Pap smear and pelvic exam are normal.
Urine Test
A clean-catch urine test (midstream urine test) is done to check for infection. If this test shows bacteria, your nephrologist will give you antibiotics to treat the infection. If this infection continues to exist, you may be given antibiotics daily after your transplant.
Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)
A VCUG is an X-ray of your bladder. Patients who are diabetic or have little or no urine for a long period of time may have bladder problems. This test will indicate whether you will have problems after receiving a kidney.