eGFR (CKD-EPI) Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate your Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) based on serum creatinine, age, sex, and race, using the CKD-EPI (2009) equation. eGFR is a key indicator of kidney function.
Note: The inclusion of race in eGFR calculations is a subject of ongoing discussion and review in medical guidelines.
Your Estimated GFR (eGFR):
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Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects millions worldwide, often progressing silently without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Early detection and management are crucial for slowing its progression and preventing serious complications. One of the most important tools for assessing kidney function is the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR).
What is eGFR?
The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a measure of how well your kidneys are filtering waste products from your blood. Specifically, it indicates the volume of blood filtered by the glomeruli (tiny filters in your kidneys) per minute. A healthy GFR means your kidneys are effectively removing toxins and excess fluid from your body.
Since directly measuring GFR is complex and invasive, healthcare providers typically use an estimated GFR (eGFR). This is calculated using a formula that takes into account factors like serum creatinine levels (a waste product in the blood), age, sex, and sometimes race. The CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) equation, used in this calculator, is one of the most widely accepted and accurate formulas for estimating GFR.
Why is eGFR Important?
- Early Detection: A low eGFR can be an early sign of kidney damage, even before symptoms appear.
- Staging CKD: eGFR is the primary criterion for staging CKD, helping doctors understand the severity of kidney disease.
- Treatment Planning: Knowing your eGFR helps healthcare providers tailor treatment plans, including medication adjustments, dietary recommendations, and monitoring frequency.
- Prognosis: eGFR values are predictive of future kidney health and the risk of complications.
Inputs for the eGFR Calculator
To use this calculator, you will need the following information:
- Serum Creatinine (mg/dL): This is a blood test result that measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is a waste product from muscle metabolism that healthy kidneys filter out. Higher levels can indicate reduced kidney function.
- Age (years): Kidney function naturally declines with age, so this is an important factor in the estimation.
- Sex: Biological sex influences muscle mass and creatinine production, which are factored into the eGFR equation.
- Race: Historically, race (specifically African American) has been included in eGFR equations due to observed differences in creatinine levels. However, the use of race in these calculations is currently under review by medical organizations due to concerns about health equity and potential biases. This calculator includes it as per the original CKD-EPI (2009) formula, but it's important to be aware of the ongoing discussions.
Interpreting Your eGFR Result and CKD Stages
The eGFR value is expressed in milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters (mL/min/1.73 m²), which normalizes the result to an average body surface area. The result will also indicate your CKD stage:
- Stage G1 (eGFR ≥ 90): Normal or high eGFR. Kidney damage may be present if other markers (like protein in urine) are abnormal.
- Stage G2 (eGFR 60-89): Mildly decreased eGFR. Kidney damage may be present.
- Stage G3a (eGFR 45-59): Mildly to moderately decreased eGFR.
- Stage G3b (eGFR 30-44): Moderately to severely decreased eGFR.
- Stage G4 (eGFR 15-29): Severely decreased eGFR.
- Stage G5 (eGFR < 15): Kidney failure. At this stage, kidney replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant) may be needed.
It's important to remember that an eGFR result is just one piece of the puzzle. Your doctor will consider your overall health, medical history, and other tests (like urine tests for protein) to make a comprehensive assessment of your kidney health.
Example Calculation
Let's consider a 60-year-old female, non-African American, with a serum creatinine level of 1.5 mg/dL:
- Serum Creatinine: 1.5 mg/dL
- Age: 60 years
- Sex: Female
- Race: Non-African American
Using the CKD-EPI (2009) formula, her eGFR would be approximately 39 mL/min/1.73 m². This would place her in CKD Stage G3b, indicating moderately to severely decreased kidney function. This result would prompt further investigation and management by a healthcare professional.
Disclaimer: This eGFR calculator is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.