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GFR (glomerular filtration rate)

GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) test reflects the kidneys’ ability to cleanse the blood, that is, their ability to remove excess water and waste material from the body.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and kidney health

  • Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) reflects kidney health.
  • GFR test is a more accurate measure of kidney function than creatinine alone.
  • Abnormally low GFR indicates kidney dysfunction.

Kidney function measurements

Kidney function has long been assessed through creatinine measurements. However, glomerular filtration rate is a more accurate measure of kidney function than just creatinine.

Why is GFR measured?

GRF test reflects the ability of the kidneys to purify the blood from excess water and waste products. 

GFR is measured to determine or to monitor kidney function. It is measured when assessing overall health, determining the causes of abnormal symptoms, in the context of kidney-affecting diseases (for example diabetes, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases), and when starting or adjusting medications that may affect the kidneys.

Reference values for GFR

GFR is influenced by the same factors as creatinine. Creatinine comes from muscles, which is why high muscle mass raises creatinine level and low muscle mass decreases it. 

Men produce more creatinine than women because men have more muscle mass than women. 

Age also influences the values as kidney function naturally deteriorates and muscle mass often decreases with age. 

Due to the formula, decreased kidney function is manifested as an increase in creatinine but a decrease in GFR. 

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