Estimating and Interpreting Glomerular Filtation Rate

Estimation of the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is the best overall index of the level of kidney function. GFR provides an excellent measure of the filtering capacity of the kidneys. A low or decreasing GFR is a good index of chronic kidney disease. Since the total kidney GFR is equal to the sum of the filtration rates in each of the functioning nephrons, the total GFR can be used as an index of functioning renal mass.

GFR Calculator

A decrease in GFR precedes kidney failure in all forms of progressive kidney disease. Monitoring changes in GFR can delineate progression of kidney disease. The level of GFR is a strong predictor of the time to onset of kidney failure as well as the risk of complications of chronic kidney disease. Additionally, estimation of GFR in clinical practice allows proper dosing of drugs excreted by glomerular filtration to avoid potential drug toxicity.

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