Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate

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What is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)

The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a test that is used to assess how well your kidneys are working. The test estimates the volume of blood that is filtered by your kidneys over a given period of time. The test is called the estimated glomerular filtration rate because the glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys. If these filters do not do their job properly then the kidney is said to have reduced or impaired kidney function.

The eGFR test involves a blood test which measures a chemical called creatinine. Creatinine is a breakdown product of muscle. Creatinine is normally cleared from the blood by the kidneys. If your kidneys are not working properly, the level of creatinine in the blood goes up. The eGFR is then calculated from your age, sex and blood creatinine level. An adjustment to the calculation is needed for people with African-Caribbean origin.

Stages of kidney function

The level of kidney function is divided into five stages:

Note: it is not possible to assess the eGFR accurately in people with abnormal amounts of muscle and in people who have conditions that can affect the level of creatinine. This includes:

• People with muscle wasting conditions.
• People who have had an amputation of an arm or leg.
• Malnourished people.
• Pregnancy.
• People with acute kidney failure.
• People with a lot oedema (fluid retention).
• Children.

© EMIS and PIP 2006   Updated: June 2006