What is Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)?

The Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) assesses kidney function and is able to indicate the stage of kidney disease. It is an important test that is calculated from the results of your blood creatinine test, age, sex, and other factors.

• Significance: The eGFR is the best measure of kidney function. A lower eGFR indicates less kidney function and can help doctors determine the stage of kidney disease.

• Calculation: The eGFR is calculated using a formula that includes your blood creatinine level, age, sex, and race. This formula is often included in blood test results.

• Range: The normal range for eGFR is between 90 and 120. A value less than 60 for three months or more indicates chronic kidney disease.

• Usage: eGFR is used to screen for and detect early kidney damage. It is also used to monitor those who are at risk for kidney disease such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure.

• Limitations: eGFR is not accurate for people with rapidly changing kidney function. It is also less accurate for people who are very obese, very muscular, or have extreme diets.

This is a crucial test required in several conditions. It is primarily used to evaluate how efficiently the kidneys are functioning and to detect any possible indications of kidney disease. Here are some scenarios when eGFR becomes necessary:

• Monitoring existing chronic kidney disease: If an individual has been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, regular eGFR tests might be needed to monitor disease progression and evaluate the treatment effectiveness.

• Diagnosing kidney disease: If an individual exhibits symptoms of kidney disease, such as frequent urination, swelling in the ankles and feet, or fatigue, an eGFR test might be required to confirm the diagnosis.

• Assessing risk factors for kidney disease: If an individual is at risk of kidney diseasem an eGFR test may be used to detect early signs of kidney disease. Common risk factors of kidney disease are diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease.

• Preparation for kidney transplant: Before a kidney transplant, an eGFR test may be required to determine the patient's suitability for the procedure.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a test that can be required by a wide range of individuals. Any person who displays symptoms of kidney disease or has risk factors for kidney disease may need to have an eGFR test. Here are some specific categories of people who might require this test:

• Individuals with symptoms of kidney disease, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or changes in urine output.

• People with conditions that increase the risk of kidney disease, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

• Individuals with a family history of kidney disease.

• People who are undergoing preparation for kidney transplant.

• Individuals who are already diagnosed with kidney disease to monitor the treatment progress.

In the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) test, various components are measured to determine the efficiency of the kidneys. Here are the main factors that are evaluated:

• Blood creatinine level: Creatinine is a waste product made by your muscles and filtered out by your kidneys. An elevated blood creatinine level may indicate kidney dysfunction.

• Age of the person: Older age can often mean lower eGFR, as kidney function may decrease with age.

• Gender of the person: Men often have higher creatinine levels than women, which can affect the eGFR.

• Ethnicity of the person: Certain ethnic groups, like African Americans, often have higher normal ranges of creatinine, which can affect the eGFR calculation.

• The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a test used to check kidney functioning. Specifically, it estimates the amount of blood that passes through the glomeruli. The glomeruli are tiny filters in the kidneys that which filter out waste from the blood, per minute.

• eGFR is calculated using a formula that considers factors like age, gender, body size, and serum creatinine level. Creatinine is a waste product that should be removed by the kidneys. High levels of creatinine are an indication of poor kidney function.

• There are different equations to calculate eGFR, but the most commonly used ones are the MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) study equation and the CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) equation.

• The eGFR test is a vital part of diagnosing and monitoring chronic kidney disease. It is also used to determine the stage of kidney disease, to track disease progression, and to guide treatment decisions.

• As the eGFR is calculated from a blood test that measures creatinine levels, no specific preparations are required.

• However, factors like a diet rich in meat, certain medications, and rigorous exercise before the test can affect the test accuracy. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

• Do inform your doctor about any medicines/supplements/herbal remedies you are taking, as some may affect your creatinine levels.

• Patients do not need to fast before this test. You can consume food and drink as per usual unless your healthcare provider has provided you other instructions.

This is a simple blood test. A healthcare professional will draw some blood from a vein in your arm.

The collected blood sample is sent for analysis to a laboratory, where it is tested for creatinine and other markers. The results are then used to calculate the eGFR using the appropriate formula.

During the test, you will feel a slight prick or stinging sensation from the needle. Some people may experience minor bruising.

The test itself takes only a few minutes, but it may take a few days to get the results.

The normal range varies depending on age, sex, and body size. For most adults, the normal eGFR range is 90 to 120 mL/min/1.73m2.

• For men, the average eGFR is around 107 mL/min/1.73m2.

• For women, the average is slightly lower at around 87 mL/min/1.73m2.

• It's important to note that these are averages and the normal range can vary widely.

• As people age, the eGFR naturally decreases. For people over the age of 70, a normal eGFR might be lower than 60 mL/min/1.73m2.

An abnormal eGFR reading can be a sign of kidney disease. There are numerous potential causes of a low eGFR, including:

• Chronic kidney disease: This is the most common cause of a low eGFR. Over time, chronic kidney disease can cause kidney failure.

• Acute kidney injury: This is a sudden, severe injury to the kidneys that can dramatically lower eGFR.

• Dehydration: If your body doesn't have enough fluid, your kidneys may not be able to properly filter waste, leading to a lower eGFR.

• Certain medications: Some medications can harm the kidneys and lower eGFR.

Maintaining a normal eGFR requires taking care of your kidneys. Here are some steps you can take:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking sufficient water can help your kidneys function properly.

• Eat a healthy diet: A diet with a lot of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help maintain kidney health.

• Limit sodium: Too much sodium can be harmful to your kidneys. Limit your intake of salty foods.

• Exercise regularly: This can help maintain a healthy weight and lower your blood pressure, both of which are good for your kidneys.

After getting an eGFR test, you may need to take certain precautions, especially if your eGFR is low. Here are some tips:

• Talk to your doctor about your medications: If you're taking any medications that can harm your kidneys, your doctor might need to adjust your dosage or change your medication.

• Monitor your blood pressure levels regularly: High blood pressure can negatively impact your kidneys and lower your eGFR.

• Monitor your blood sugar: If you are suffering from diabetes, high blood sugar can damage your kidneys.

• Follow up with your doctor: It's important to have regular check-ups to monitor your kidney function and eGFR.

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