Egfr (fish)

Other Names: EGFR, Glomerular filtration rate, Calculated glomerular filtration rate, cGFR

Estimated glomerular filtration rate evaluates kidney function. The kidney consists of tiny filters which are called glomeruli that remove waste material from the blood. The GFR test is an assessment of how well this filtration process is working.

The main function of the kidneys is to filter the blood. The kidney contains glomeruli that helps in filtration. This test basically measures how well the glomeruli are working.

An eGFR test helps to detect kidney failure or other kidney problems and may also be utilized before beginning medical procedures or treatments that can affect the kidney.

Basically eGFR is calculated by measuring another component - for example: creatinine. Special formulas are used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate depending on the level of creatinine in the blood. Since creatinine levels differ from person to person depending on age, gender and height, the formulas change for estimating the GFR.

The test is primarily used as a kidney function test.

Kidney diseases in its early stage usually does not have any symptoms. This may be a routinely ordered test if your doctor believes that you are at a higher risk of developing a kidney disorder. Diabetes, hypertension and a family history of kidney failure are some of the risk factors. Fatigue, swelling in arms and legs, loss of appetite, changes in urination are some symptoms of a kidney disorder that is progressing. Certain medicines affect the test results and hence it is best to consult a doctor about the test preparation before you undergo the test.

The reference values differ from person to person

Creatinine - 0.90 - 1.30 mg/dL

GFR (MALE) - > 60 ml/min/1.73m²

GFR (FEMALE) - > 60 ml/min/1.73m²

GFR (CHILD) - 86 ml/min/1.73 m²

Interpretation:

EGFR is a measure of the function of the kidneys. The GFR is a calculation based on a serum creatinine test. Creatinine is a muscle waste product that is filtered from the blood by the kidneys and excreted into urine at a relatively steady rate. When kidney function decreases, less creatinine is excreted and concentrations increase in the blood. Your doctor will help you understand the report basis your health condition.