A glomerular filtration rate (GFR) below 60 mL/min/1.73m² is generally considered a bad or concerning rate, indicating potential kidney disease. A GFR below 15 mL/min/1.73m² signifies kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Understanding GFR
The GFR is a crucial measure of kidney function. It reflects how well your kidneys filter waste and excess fluid from your blood. A higher GFR generally indicates healthier kidneys.
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Normal GFR: Generally, a GFR of 90 mL/min/1.73m² or higher is considered normal for most healthy adults. However, the normal range can vary based on age and other factors. A GFR above 60 is usually within the normal range.
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Reduced GFR: A GFR between 60 and 89 mL/min/1.73m² suggests mild to moderate kidney damage, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease. The lower the GFR in this range, the more severe the impairment.
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Kidney Failure GFR: A GFR below 15 mL/min/1.73m² indicates end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or kidney failure, a life-threatening condition requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.
The Cleveland Clinic highlights that the average GFR for someone in their 20s is around 116 mL/min/1.73m², naturally declining with age and muscle mass loss. Several sources including the National Kidney Foundation and the University of Rochester Medical Center corroborate that a GFR below 60 indicates potential kidney problems.
It's important to note that a single GFR test isn't enough for diagnosis. Your doctor will consider this result alongside other factors like your medical history and other tests to determine the best course of action.
