RENAL CLEARANCE OF ALLANTOIN AS A MEASURE OF GLOMERULAR FILTRATION RATE

Abstract

The renal clearance of allantoin was detd. in 9 normal humans, in 4 of whom simultaneous inulin clearances were obtained. The avg. ratio of allantoin to inulin clearance in these 4 subjects was 1.04. Concomitant allantoin and inulin clearances were detd. in 11 patients suspected of having reduced renal function. The avg. ratio of allantoin to inulin clearance in these subjects was 0.99. The advantage of the use of allantoin rather than inulin in the estimation of renal filtration rate is the opportunity to perform a clearance without the necessity for continuous intraven. infusion, since allantoin is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract at a stable rate. Allantoin is non-toxic and easily soluble in urine.