What is eGFR?
The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a calculation that estimates how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. It is derived from your serum creatinine level, age, sex, and race using the CKD-EPI formula.
Unlike direct measurements, eGFR offers a convenient, non-invasive way to evaluate kidney function and is commonly used to screen for chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Why eGFR Matters
- Helps detect early signs of kidney damage
- Guides diagnosis and staging of chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Assists in determining medication dosages that depend on kidney function
CKD Stages by eGFR
Stage | eGFR Range (mL/min/1.73m²) | Description |
---|---|---|
Stage 1 | ≥ 90 | Normal function but with signs of kidney damage |
Stage 2 | 60–89 | Mildly reduced function with signs of kidney damage |
Stage 3a | 45–59 | Mild to moderate decrease in kidney function |
Stage 3b | 30–44 | Moderate to severe decrease in function |
Stage 4 | 15–29 | Severely decreased function |
Stage 5 | < 15 | Kidney failure (end-stage renal disease) |
Limitations
- Accuracy may vary in individuals with very high or low muscle mass
- Race-based adjustments may not be applicable for all populations
- Interpret eGFR alongside other tests like urine albumin and imaging
Always consult a healthcare professional for interpretation and next steps based on your eGFR result.