Understanding Estimated GFR: What Your Blood Test Result Means

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a crucial marker used to assess how well your kidneys are functioning. It is calculated from a blood test and helps identify potential kidney issues. Understanding your eGFR results can be important for maintaining kidney health and taking necessary actions if needed.

What is eGFR?

The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a measure of how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. It is expressed in milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters (mL/min/1.73m²). The eGFR is calculated based on serum creatinine levels, age, sex, and sometimes race. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and is filtered out by the kidneys. A higher eGFR indicates better kidney function.

Why eGFR Matters

Monitoring eGFR is vital because it provides insight into kidney health. A normal eGFR is typically 90 mL/min/1.73m² or higher, indicating healthy kidney function. An eGFR between 60 and 89 mL/min/1.73m² is considered mildly reduced and may require monitoring. An eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73m² suggests chronic kidney disease (CKD), which needs medical attention and possibly lifestyle changes to manage.

Factors Affecting eGFR

Several factors can influence eGFR results. Age is a natural factor, as kidney function tends to decline with age. Other factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain medications that can affect kidney function. It's important to consider these factors when interpreting eGFR results.

How to Interpret Your eGFR Result

• Normal: An eGFR of 90 mL/min/1.73m² or more indicates normal kidney function.
• Mildly Reduced: An eGFR of 60-89 mL/min/1.73m² is mildly reduced and may require further monitoring or lifestyle adjustments.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): An eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73m² is a marker for CKD, which requires medical evaluation and potential treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a low eGFR mean?
A low eGFR means your kidneys are not filtering waste as well as they should. It could indicate chronic kidney disease, which requires medical evaluation.

Can eGFR change over time?
Yes, eGFR can change due to factors like age, medication, or treatment of underlying conditions. Regular monitoring can help track these changes.

Does diet affect eGFR?
Yes, diet can impact kidney health. A diet low in salt, sugar, and protein may help maintain kidney function and improve eGFR.

When to see a doctor

If your eGFR is below 60 mL/min/1.73m², it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your kidney function and discuss potential treatments or lifestyle changes. Even if your eGFR is mildly reduced, discussing it with your doctor can help prevent further decline.

Remember, this information is for educational purposes and any health decisions should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.