Estimate Your Glomerular Filtration Rate

Although it sounds like a mouthful, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is simply a way of evaluating how well your kidneys are filtering out toxins, particularly creatinine. Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism that can become toxic if it builds up so it must be excreted by the kidneys.

Estimating GFR is a convenient and efficient way to assess kidney function without the need for a 24-hour urine collection. The eGFR calculation usually incorporates age, gender, and creatinine into the result which helps account for the expected decline in kidney function that comes with aging. 

A low eGFR is associated with impairment of kidney function, liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, and dehydration. A high eGFR can be seen with high cardiac output syndromes, exercise, and pregnancy.

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