- What is eGFR?
- The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a key measure of how well your kidneys are functioning.
- It assesses the amount of blood the kidneys filter per minute, providing insight into kidney health.
- How is eGFR Calculated?
- eGFR is derived from blood creatinine levels, factoring in age, gender, and race.
- Creatinine is a waste product from muscle metabolism, and high levels indicate reduced kidney filtration efficiency.
- Normal Values of eGFR:
- 90 or higher: Normal kidney function.
- 60 to 89: Mildly reduced kidney function, may suggest early kidney damage.
- Less than 60: Indicates potential chronic kidney disease (CKD); further testing and monitoring may be required.
- Less than 15: Severe kidney damage, potentially leading to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation.
- Why is eGFR Important?
- Early detection of decreased kidney function can help slow the progression of kidney disease.
- Monitoring eGFR regularly helps guide treatment plans for individuals with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or family history of kidney disease.
- Maintaining optimal eGFR values is essential for avoiding complications such as high blood pressure, anemia, and cardiovascular disease.
- Interpreting Results:
- A declining eGFR signals worsening kidney function and may require lifestyle changes or medical intervention.
c) Recommended Tests
- Creatinine: This test is often paired with eGFR as creatinine levels are a key component in calculating the eGFR. Monitoring creatinine can help detect early kidney issues.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Individuals with kidney disease may develop anemia. A CBC test monitors red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, helping to assess overall health and detect complications from kidney disease.
