Question 1

Purpose Test

Accepted Answer

To estimate the kidneys' efficiency in filtering blood and removing waste such as creatinine. To diagnose and classify stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from stage 1 (normal or near normal with signs of disease) to stage 5 (renal failure). To monitor the progression of chronic kidney disease and its response to treatment. To assess kidney function before starting medications that may affect it or before certain medical procedures like imaging with contrast dyes.

Question 2

Recommended groups

Accepted Answer

Chronic patients: Especially those with diabetes and high blood pressure, as they are at higher risk for chronic kidney disease. The elderly: As kidney function gradually declines with age, requiring regular monitoring. Men and women: With a family history of kidney disease or kidney failure. People taking long-term medications: Some medications may affect the kidneys, requiring monitoring of their function.

Question 3

Symptoms indicative

Accepted Answer

Swelling in the feet, ankles, or around the eyes. Persistent high blood pressure or difficulty controlling it. Noticeable changes in urine color or quantity (e.g., frothy urine). Ongoing general fatigue and loss of appetite. Diagnosis of diabetes or high blood pressure, where the test is requested periodically as part of monitoring.

Question 4

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Accepted Answer

What is the difference between eGFR and creatinine test? Creatinine is a waste product in the blood that results from muscle activity, and its elevation indicates a potential kidney problem. On the other hand, eGFR is a calculation that uses creatinine levels along with other factors (such as age and gender) to estimate the percentage of kidney function remaining, providing a clearer and more meaningful picture of kidney health. What does it mean if my eGFR result is less than 60? An eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for more than 3 months may indicate chronic kidney disease (stage 3 or higher). This result should be discussed with a doctor to determine the cause (such as diabetes or high blood pressure) and to establish a treatment and follow-up plan. Can eGFR be normal with kidney disease? Yes, in very early stages of kidney disease (stage 1 and 2). eGFR may be normal or near-normal (>60), but other signs of kidney damage, such as the presence of albumin (protein) in the urine, may exist. Therefore, a doctor may request both a urine test and eGFR for a comprehensive assessment.

Question 5

Normal Levels

Accepted Answer

An eGFR above 90 mL/min/1.73 m² is considered normal and indicates healthy kidney function or very early stages of disease (if accompanied by other signs). A value between 60 and 89 indicates a slight decrease, which could be normal with age or an early sign of stage 2 chronic kidney disease. Any value less than 60 requires urgent medical evaluation. The accuracy depends on the validity of the calculation equation used (e.g., CKD-EPI).

Check Your Kidney Efficiency - Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) Test