What is Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)?
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a crucial test used to evaluate how well your kidneys are functioning. It measures the amount of blood that your kidneys filter per minute. Your kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluid from your blood, and GFR provides a key indicator of their efficiency.
A normal GFR varies based on age, sex, and body size. As people age, their GFR naturally tends to decrease. However, a significantly low GFR can indicate kidney disease or other health problems. Kidney disease, if left untreated, can progress and lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Understanding Your GFR Results
GFR is typically reported in milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters of body surface area (mL/min/1.73 m²). Your doctor will interpret your GFR results in the context of your overall health, medical history, and other lab tests. Generally, the higher the GFR, the better your kidneys are working. A GFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for three months or more may indicate chronic kidney disease.
Factors Affecting GFR
- Age: GFR naturally declines with age.
- Sex: Men typically have a slightly higher GFR than women.
- Body Size: Larger individuals may have a higher GFR.
- Race: Certain race adjustments are sometimes made in GFR estimations, though this is a subject of ongoing medical discussion.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and autoimmune diseases can all impact kidney function and GFR.
- Medications: Some medications can affect kidney function.
Why Use a GFR Calculator?
A GFR calculator can help you understand how your lab results might translate into an estimated GFR. It uses established formulas, such as the CKD-EPI equation or the MDRD study equation, which take into account your serum creatinine levels, age, sex, and sometimes race, to estimate your kidney function. While this calculator can be a helpful tool for educational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always discuss your GFR results and any concerns with your healthcare provider.
GFR Estimation Calculator
This calculator estimates your Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) using the CKD-EPI 2021 creatinine equation. Please enter your details below.