The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a critical measure in assessing kidney function. It estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli, which are tiny filters in the kidneys, each minute. A normal GFR varies according to age, sex, and body size, and it is approximately 90 mL/min/1.73 m² or higher in healthy individuals.
GFR is used to categorize the stage of kidney disease, ranging from normal kidney function to kidney failure. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is classified into five stages based on GFR values, with stage 1 indicating normal or high GFR and stage 5 indicating kidney failure.
Regular monitoring of GFR can help in early detection and management of kidney disease. Lifestyle changes, medications, and diet modifications are often recommended to manage declining kidney function effectively.
In clinical practice, serum creatinine is used to estimate GFR. Elevated serum creatinine levels typically indicate reduced kidney function and thus a lower GFR. This relationship is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring renal diseases.
A persistently low GFR is indicative of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The severity of CKD is often determined by the level of GFR, making it an essential measure in the management and prognosis of kidney health.