Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (EGFR)

eGFR estimates kidney filtration efficiency, indicating kidney function and helping diagnose kidney disease.

📋 About This Biomarker

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a calculated measure of how well the kidneys are filtering blood. It estimates the rate at which blood is passed through the glomeruli, tiny filters in the kidneys. eGFR is calculated using a formula that includes serum creatinine levels, age, sex, and race. It is an important indicator of kidney function and is used to diagnose and monitor kidney diseases. Normal eGFR values are typically greater than 90 mL/min/1.73 m², with lower values indicating reduced kidney function. eGFR is essential for detecting early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and for monitoring the progression of kidney damage over time.

🎯 Why We Test This

Measuring eGFR is essential for diagnosing and monitoring kidney function, particularly in detecting early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). It provides valuable insights into the kidneys' ability to filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. Regular monitoring of eGFR is crucial for individuals with risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Maintaining eGFR within the normal range is vital for preventing kidney damage and ensuring overall health.

⚠️ What Affects It

Factors influencing eGFR include age, sex, race, muscle mass, serum creatinine levels, and certain medications. Conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, and acute kidney injury can also impact eGFR. Lifestyle factors like diet, hydration status, and physical activity can affect serum creatinine levels, thus influencing eGFR calculations.

📈 How to Improve

For high eGFR values within the normal range, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration is essential. For eGFR values close to being high, similar lifestyle practices should be continued. For low eGFR values, managing underlying conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and avoiding nephrotoxic medications are crucial. For eGFR values close to being low, similar interventions and regular monitoring can help maintain kidney function. Consulting with a healthcare provider ensures appropriate interventions and effective monitoring, helping to prevent further decline in kidney function.

📊 Understanding Your Results (ml/min)

Low (< 59 ml/min)
Low eGFR values (<60 mL/min/1.73 m²) indicate reduced kidney function and may suggest chronic kidney disease (CKD). Symptoms of reduced kidney function can include fatigue, swelling, changes in urine output, and high blood pressure. Identifying and treating the underlying cause, such as managing diabetes or hypertension, is crucial for slowing the progression of kidney disease and preventing complications.
Optimal
Normal eGFR values (typically greater than 90 mL/min/1.73 m²) indicate good kidney function and effective filtration of blood. This balance reflects proper kidney health and suggests no significant impairment or disease affecting kidney function. eGFR values near the upper limit of normal suggest excellent kidney function. Maintaining this level is ideal for overall health, and no specific interventions are typically needed beyond maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular monitoring. eGFR values close to the lower limit of normal (60-89 mL/min/1.73 m²) may indicate early signs of reduced kidney function, potentially due to aging, mild kidney stress, or chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes. Monitoring these levels and managing underlying health issues can help maintain kidney function.
High
eGFR values greater than 90 mL/min/1.73 m² are considered normal and indicate healthy kidney function. However, very high eGFR values are not typically reported as they do not provide additional clinical information beyond indicating normal function.
Also known as: Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, egfr