What is the EGFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) Test?

The kidneys are important organs that filter blood and remove waste products from the body. The glomeruli constitute the kidneys' primary filtering units. When the kidneys are not functioning adequately, some type of filtering problem usually occurs in the glomerular structures. In this case, doctors often use a blood test called eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) to assess kidney function. eGFR is a key parameter that helps determine kidney function. Various data, primarily blood creatinine levels, are used to calculate this value, and a computer can be used to calculate an estimate of a person's kidney function. This test takes into account not only the creatinine level but also factors such as the individual's age, gender, weight, and ethnicity.

What is the EGFR test?

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a parameter that measures how much blood the filtering units in the kidneys' glomeruli clear each minute. This filtration process allows the kidneys to filter blood and remove waste products from the body through urine.

The eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) test assesses the kidneys' rate of function and estimates how much blood the glomeruli filter each minute. This test is based on a blood sample taken and the creatinine level. Creatinine is a byproduct of metabolism in the body and is generally filtered by the kidneys. The creatinine level is the primary factor in calculating the eGFR. However, factors such as a person's age, weight, and gender can also be taken into account in calculating the eGFR. This information helps provide an estimate of kidney function.

What should be the EGFR test value?

EGFR values ​​are used to assess kidney function and determine the degree of kidney damage. The following reference ranges are generally used:

• Normal or high: 90 ml/min/1.73 m² and above
• Slightly decreased: 60-89 ml/min/1.73 m²
• Mild to moderately decreased: 45-59 ml/min/1.73 m²
• Moderate to severely decreased: 30-44 ml/min/1.73 m²
• Severely decreased: 15-29 ml/min/1.73 m²
• Renal failure: 15 ml/min/1.73 m² and below

These ranges of values ​​are used to determine changes in kidney function and the degree of kidney damage based on the eGFR. These values ​​can determine the severity of the disease or damage and treatment options. The treatment plan is determined by the eGFR value, the stage of the disease, and the patient's overall health. If you have any questions or uncertainties, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

What is high EGFR?

An elevated EGFR means that your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is above normal, usually 90 ml/min/1.73 m² or higher. This indicates that the kidneys are cleaning and filtering blood more quickly and may indicate normal or high kidney function.

While a high EGFR is generally a positive sign, it can vary across any given health condition or disease. For example, in some cases, a high EGFR can be a sign of an early disease or underlying health issue. In these cases, doctors often perform specific tests and examinations to further evaluate the patient's condition.

If a person's EGFR is high, it's important to talk to a doctor to determine the cause and evaluate potential risks. Ultimately, while a high EGFR generally indicates good kidney function, it's important to monitor any underlying health conditions or diseases under the supervision of a doctor.

What is low EGFR?

A low EGFR is a condition in which your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is low. This means your kidneys are cleaning and filtering blood at a slower rate and may indicate decreased kidney function.

Low eGFR can occur due to various kidney diseases, urinary tract obstructions, or kidney dysfunction. For example, any blockage or obstruction in the urinary tract can affect the normal functioning of the kidneys. In this case, the inability to excrete urine or the backward flow of urine can lead to kidney damage and decreased function.

A low EGFR can be a significant symptom of kidney health and requires early diagnosis and treatment. A doctor usually evaluates the kidneys, and various tests may be ordered to determine the underlying cause. This allows for appropriate treatment options and prevents kidney damage. Consequently, it's important to consult a healthcare professional and undergo any necessary medical evaluations if you have a low EGFR.

Why is the EGFR test performed?

The EGFR test is performed to assess kidney function. This test helps estimate the rate at which the kidneys filter blood (glomerular filtration rate (GFR). A low EGFR may indicate decreased or damaged kidney function.

EGFR testing may be performed particularly in the following situations:

• Identifying or monitoring kidney disease: If a person has symptoms of kidney disease or has had kidney disease in the past, a doctor may order an EGFR test. This test can also help monitor kidney function regularly.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can cause kidney damage. The EGFR test can be an important test for evaluating kidney function in people with diabetes.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure): High blood pressure can have negative effects on the kidneys. An EGFR test can help assess the impact of hypertension on kidney function.
• Pregnancy: Kidney function may change during pregnancy in some cases. EGFR testing can be used to monitor kidney function during pregnancy.
• Heart disease: Some heart conditions can affect the kidneys. An EGFR test can be helpful in evaluating kidney function in people with heart disease.

The EGFR test provides important information about kidney function and helps identify and monitor kidney health conditions. However, it's important for your doctor to consider other tests in addition to the results of this test for definitive diagnosis and treatment.

In what cases should EGFR testing be performed?

The EGFR test is used to determine kidney function or monitor kidney disease. It helps estimate the kidney's filtering rate (glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and provides important information about kidney health. Symptoms and conditions that may require an EGFR test include:

• Feeling tired: Constant fatigue can be a sign of decreased kidney function or kidney disease.
• Itchy skin: If the kidneys cannot adequately remove waste products from the body, itchy skin may occur.
• Swelling in the extremities: Abnormal swelling in the arms, legs, or feet can be a sign of fluid retention and may be related to kidney dysfunction.
• Nausea and vomiting: Kidney diseases can cause nausea and vomiting.
• Muscle cramps: Inadequate kidney function can cause electrolyte imbalance in the body, which can lead to muscle cramps.
• Loss of appetite: Chronic kidney disease can cause loss of appetite and weight loss.
• Changes in urine output: Changes such as frequent urination, little urination, or a different urine color or odor than normal may be related to the kidneys.

If any or more of these symptoms are present, your doctor may order an EGFR test to evaluate kidney function. However, it's important for your doctor to thoroughly evaluate your symptoms, as these symptoms can also indicate other health problems.

How to increase EGFR?

EGFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) is an indicator of kidney function, and low levels can raise concerns about kidney health. Some lifestyle changes and health measures can be taken to increase EGFR:

• Keeping blood pressure under control: High blood pressure can negatively impact kidney health. Appropriate medications, along with a doctor's advice, and a healthy diet and regular exercise can also lower blood pressure.
• Healthy diet: A low-sodium, low-cholesterol diet is important for kidney health. High-fiber foods and adequate fruit and vegetable intake should also be part of a healthy diet.
• Water consumption: Regularly consuming the body's water needs supports kidney function. However, excessive water consumption is not recommended, depending on your personal health.
• Exercise: Regular exercise regulates blood pressure, keeps body weight under control and supports overall health.
• Monitoring chronic diseases: Regular monitoring and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension is important in maintaining kidney health.

The most appropriate treatment methods and lifestyle changes to increase EGFR value may vary depending on the person's health status, medical history, and doctor's recommendations.