eGFR, or estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, levels are a measure of how well your kidneys are filtering waste and toxins from your blood. Healthcare providers use eGFR to assess kidney function and determine the presence and stage of kidney disease.
Understanding eGFR
eGFR isn't a direct measurement of kidney function; it's an estimation based on a blood test measuring creatinine levels, along with factors like your age, sex, race, and size. The glomeruli are tiny filters within your kidneys, and eGFR reflects how much blood these filters can process per minute. A higher eGFR indicates better kidney function, while a lower eGFR can suggest impaired kidney function.
How eGFR is Used
- Assessing Kidney Disease: The primary use of eGFR is to diagnose and monitor kidney disease.
- Staging Kidney Disease: eGFR values help in determining the stage of kidney disease, which helps doctors tailor treatment plans.
- Monitoring Treatment: Regular eGFR testing can show how well kidney disease treatment is working.
- Adjusting Medication: eGFR can influence dosages of medications that are processed by the kidneys.
What do eGFR Levels Mean?
While specific eGFR ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and guidelines used, generally:
| eGFR Level (mL/min/1.73m²) | Kidney Function | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 90 or higher | Normal or High | Healthy kidney function |
| 60-89 | Mildly reduced | May indicate early kidney disease; further monitoring may be needed |
| 30-59 | Moderately reduced | Moderate kidney disease; medical intervention may be necessary |
| 15-29 | Severely reduced | Severe kidney disease; may require preparations for dialysis or kidney transplant |
| Less than 15 | Kidney failure | Indicates kidney failure; dialysis or kidney transplant will be necessary to sustain life |
Why are eGFR levels important?
- Early Detection: eGFR allows for the early detection of kidney disease, before any major symptoms manifest.
- Treatment Planning: Provides essential information to healthcare providers for proper medical and treatment plans.
- Preventing Complications: Early and accurate monitoring can prevent further damage and potentially reduce life-threatening complications.
- Kidney Failure Indication: A very low eGFR level may signify kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life.
In summary, eGFR levels are crucial for assessing kidney health and guiding medical decisions regarding kidney disease. They offer an essential insight into kidney filtration capacity, which is vital for overall health.
