eGFR – indications, course of the test, when to perform? EGFR standards

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The examination of the eGFR glomerular filtration rate enables the detection of disorders in the proper functioning of the kidneys. The norm of eGFR and GFR depends on the age, race, weight and sex of the examined person. These are important indicators of the excretory work of the kidneys. It allows to detect, among others chronic kidney failure, which is a problem for an increasing number of Poles.

What is the eGFR test?

The eGFR test allows screening of kidney function and monitoring of their health. The eGFR is the glomerular filtration rate and describes the glomerular filtration rate in relation to the human body. Doctors refer to the GFR and eGFR standards when assessing the health of patients with kidney problems. Chronic kidney disease may affect, for example, the circulatory system. Early diagnosis allows for quick treatment and halting the development of the disease.

Patients who are suspected of having one of the kidney diseases are referred for the eGFR test. The symptoms suggestive of various organ dysfunctions. This could mean that the person passes less urine, or that the urine is foamy, for example bloody or coffee-colored. Kidney disease may also be suggested by too frequent urination in smaller portions, hypertension and pain in the lumbar region of the spine.

eGFR – the course of the study

Patients start the study in the morning before eating their first meal. The cost of the test is from several to several dozen zlotys and it is also performed under the National Health Fund. The eGFR value is determined on the basis of the serum creatinine or cystatin C concentration. For this purpose, formulas are used, among others MDRD, taking into account factors such as creatinine concentration, age, gender and race of the patient.

The eGFR value is determined in the laboratory. Along with the result, the patient may receive the concentration of creatinine present in the blood serum. The second method of calculating the eGFR value is to use the Cockcroft-Gault formula – it is used when examining elderly patients and patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. The Cockcroft-Gault method is not applicable to more advanced cases.

eGFR – standards

The main measure of assessment in determining the severity of kidney disease is the size of the eGFR. When its value is less than 90 ml / min / 1,73 m2, it is a sign of renal failure. An undesirable condition is also an excessively high level of eGFR. In both cases, the cause can be kidney damage as a result of diabetes or high blood pressure, acute nephritis, glomerulonephritis, or pyelonephritis.

Too high level of eGFR is also a sign of the disease, e.g. in the first stage of diabetic kidney disease, the eGFR indicator reaches even 400 ml / min / 1,73 m2. The norm of eGFR for adults is difficult to determine as it depends on many factors. It has been assumed, however, that for men it should be optimally 130 ml / min / 1,73 m2 and for women and children it should be optimally 115 ml / min / 1,73 m2.

eGFR – what diseases does it detect?

By examining the eGFR, we can detect chronic kidney diseases early, which could be the result of, for example:

1. renal ischemia,
2. glomerulonephritis,
3. cystic kidney degeneration,
4. kidney vasculitis
5. impaired outflow of urine,
6. diabetic nephropathy.

eGFR – indications for the study

The eGFR level test is performed in people whose doctor suspects kidney disease. It is evidenced by the following symptoms, which are also an indication for the eGFR test:

1. swelling
2. a small amount of urine output
3. foamy blood or coffee-colored urine
4. problems urinating,
5. burning sensation when urinating,
6. hypertension,
7. pain (sometimes radiating) in the lumbar region of the spine,
8. fatigue and weakness,
9. problems with concentration,
10. nausea and vomiting, eating disorders,
11. itchy skin and its darkening,
12. muscle cramps.