Cystatin C is a non-glycosylated, basic protein (isoelectric point at pH 9.3). The crystal structure of cystatin C is characterized by a short alpha helix and a long alpha helix which lies across a large antiparallel, five-stranded beta sheet. Like other type 2 cystatins, it has two disulfide bonds.

Serum cystatin C is an earlier and more accurate biomarker of GFR than creatinine in many patient populations. Cystatin C is independently associated with cardiovascular disease, end stage renal disease, and all-cause mortality.

Jul 26, 2023 · Cystatin C is a protein produced by the cells in your body. When kidneys work well, they keep the level of cystatin C in your blood just right. If the level of cystatin C in your blood is too high, it may mean your kidneys are not working well.

Jan 15, 2021 · Cystatin C can be used as a replacement for blood creatinine for the assessment of kidney function. It has several advantages over creatinine: Its levels don’t depend on muscle mass, physical activity, or protein intake.

Mar 28, 2025 · Understanding the cystatin C test can help you feel more in control of your kidney health. Below, we explain how it works, what your results mean, and why your doctor may suggest it.

Sep 5, 2013 · Adding the measurement of cystatin C to that of serum creatinine to determine the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) improves accuracy, but the effect on detection, staging, and risk...

The role of serum cystatin C as a measure of kidney function (filtration) is now well established. Cystatin C is generated at a mostly constant rate, is freely filtered, reabsorbed and catabolized in the proximal tubule of the nephron2.

In this review and update, we summarize the overall literature on cystatin C, critically evaluate recent high-impact studies, highlight the role of cystatin C in recent kidney disease guidelines, and suggest a practical approach for clinicians to incorporate cystatin C into practice.

The Cystatin C test is an essential diagnostic tool that provides valuable insights into kidney health. As a biomarker, Cystatin C is gaining recognition for its ability to offer a more precise evaluation of kidney function compared to traditional methods.

Both plasma creatinine and cystatin C are reliable tests for evaluating kidney function, each with some advantages and disadvantages. This report will emphasize the clinical value of serum markers (creatinine and cystatin C), the weaknesses of mGFR measurements, and suggestions for appropriate use of the eGFR parameter.