The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) blood test is a crucial diagnostic tool used to assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney disease.
By measuring how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood, the eGFR test provides valuable insights into your overall kidney health. In this article, we'll explore what the eGFR test is, why it's important, how it's performed, what the results mean, and discuss the costs associated with the test.
The eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) test is a blood test that estimates how much blood your kidneys filter each minute. The test uses the levels of creatinine in your blood, along with factors like age, gender, and race, to calculate your eGFR. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and is normally filtered out by the kidneys. The eGFR blood test provides an estimate of kidney function and is one of the most reliable indicators of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
The eGFR test is essential because it helps detect kidney disease early, even before symptoms appear. Early detection is critical for preventing the progression of kidney disease to more severe stages, which can lead to kidney failure. The eGFR blood test is also used to monitor the kidney function of people with known kidney conditions, diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic diseases that affect the kidneys.
1. Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare professional draws a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. This process usually takes just a few minutes and causes minimal discomfort.
2. Creatinine Measurement: The blood sample is sent to a laboratory where the level of creatinine in your blood is measured.
3. eGFR Calculation: Using the creatinine level, along with your age, gender, and race, the laboratory calculates your estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). The calculation is based on established formulas, such as the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) or the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations.
You should choose Diagnopein for your eGFR test because we are committed to providing high-quality diagnostic care in a clean and hygienic environment. Our center is equipped with advanced technology to ensure accurate and reliable test results, which are crucial for assessing this test. Diagnopein’s experienced staff is dedicated to handling tests with precision and care, offering you both expertise and comfort. We also offer affordable pricing, making essential health diagnostics accessible without compromising quality. For timely, professional, and affordable cardiac testing, Diagnopein is your trusted partner for your healthcare.
1. Sr. Creatinine
2. Patient Age
3. eGFR (M)
4. eGFR (F)
The eGFR is calculated using your blood creatinine levels, along with factors such as age, gender, and race. The formula most commonly used includes the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation or the CKD-EPI equation.
No, fasting is not required before an eGFR test. You can eat and drink normally unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
Symptoms of low eGFR may include fatigue, swelling (edema), shortness of breath, changes in urination, and confusion. However, early stages of kidney disease often have no symptoms.
The frequency of eGFR testing depends on your health condition. If you have risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes or hypertension, or if you already have kidney disease, your doctor may recommend regular testing every few months to monitor your kidney function.
