GFR test – what is it? How much does a GFR test cost?

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The GFR test is a method that allows you to assess the functioning of the kidneys. It is commonly called glomerular filtration. This indicator is a measure of the amount of blood that gets filtered by the kidneys. Abnormal results may be due to impaired kidney function or even severe renal insufficiency.

GFR test – preparation, result

The GFR test is performed on a blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm. They can be performed by anyone. There are no particular contraindications. The test result is usually available after a few days. It must take into account the age, race and sex of the patient. In addition, it is necessary to submit a urine sample – necessarily from the daily collection. All because the GFR is calculated from creatinine, which is contained in the serum and urine. The result may inform us that the kidneys are not working properly. However, in clinical practice, the so-called eGFR calculated from serum creatinine after substitution to the appropriate formula. Then the test is faster and consists only in taking a blood sample.

GFR examination detects diseases even at an early stage. The normal result is that the likelihood of developing kidney disease is low. If, despite the result that does not indicate a disease, you are struggling with symptoms that impede your functioning, be sure to consult a doctor who will order further diagnosis. A visit with a family doctor of contracts via the halodoctor.pl portal. also within the National Health Fund.

GFR test – standards

The results are always interpreted individually. Whether or not the result is normal depends on many factors. It is influenced by body weight, age and gender. Usually, however, the result should be greater than or equal to 90 ml / min / 1,73 m2. Typically, it is 12 ml / min / 0 for women, and 1,73 for men.

If it is too low, it does not necessarily mean you have kidney diseasetherefore it is important to consult a doctor. A concentration of less than 30 ml / min / 1,73 usually indicates severe renal failure. GFR can also classify kidney disease. There are 5 stages of the disease:

1. normal disease
2. early form of chronic renal failure,
3. moderate insufficiency,
4. severe chronic insufficiency.

The last stage is end-stage chronic renal failure. Sometimes, however, the GFR result theoretically indicates a disease, but it turns out that its increase is caused, for example, by pregnancy or other factors. You may also find that your GFR is elevated. This is the case, for example, when the patient has diabetes. Then the result is calculated by a separate method that prevents the overestimated values ​​and is adapted to the patient’s condition.

Kidney failure is a serious disease that can cause many other problems. The kidneys are needed because they purify the blood, and their diseases can be a threat to the health and sometimes life of the patient. Their symptoms should not be underestimated.

You can also check your kidneys with a blood test package. The samples are collected at the patient’s home by the uPatient company. Thanks to these tests, we will not only control the work of the kidneys and the urinary system, but also other organs involved in metabolic processes.