What is GFR
GFR (glomerular filtration rate) is the total filtration rate of functional nephrons in the kidneys. It also reflects kidney function. Therefore, it is an important measure for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of kidney disease. However, GFR is an indirect measurement. In general, it is measured in terms of the filtration rate of ideal filtration markers by the kidney. Furthermore, some Gold standard markers include insulin, iohexol or iothalamate. But, in clinical practice, creatinine is an endogenous marker used for GFR determination.
Also, the normal GFR value for the healthiest person is 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 or higher. However, it can be lowered up to 60-89 mL/min without kidney damage. Normal GFR values vary with age, sex, and body size. However, lower GFR values over a period of more than three months, along with other symptoms such as persistent protein in the urine indicate early kidney disease. Also, GFR, which is <60 mL/min for more than three months, indicates chronic kidney disease (CKD).
What is eGFR?
eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) is a calculated value of GFR by means of serum creatinine. The main advantage of eGFR is that it can be measured with the result of a single blood test using a formula. On the other hand, the calculation of GFR requires to take measures of joint measurement in blood and urine. However, the values of both GFR and eGFR are similar to each other. In addition, for adults, normal GFR values should exceed 90 mL/min.
Similarities Between GFR and eGFR
GFR and eGFR are two types of kidney function measurements. They measure the excretory function of the kidneys and are important for diagnosing kidney diseases, especially chronic ones. In addition, they help to diagnose other diseases, such as albuminuria and kidney disease.
Perbezaan antara GFR dan eGFR
- Definition
- Measurements
- Measurement Traceability
- Importance
GFR refers to the rate of blood flow through the kidneys, while eGFR refers to a number calculated to estimate GFR.
The main difference between GFR and eGFR is that GFR can be measured by plasma or urinary excretion of creatinine, while eGFR can be calculated from the results of a single blood test such as serum creatinine.
Determination of GFR requires serum and plasma creatinine, while calculation of eGFR only requires the results of a single blood test. Hence, this is another difference between GFR and eGFR.
Furthermore, GFR is important to assess kidney function, while eGFR provides a calculated value of GFR.
The conclusion
GFR is the glomerular filtration rate that gives an idea of the filtration function of the kidneys. Therefore appropriate screening markers can be used to determine GFR. Furthermore, GFR is important for diagnosing many kidney-related diseases, including chronic kidney disease. On the other hand, eGFR is an estimate of GFR, which represents GFR with a calculated value. Also, a single blood test result is required for this calculation. Here, the most widely used parameter is the serum creatinine level. Therefore, the main difference between GFR and eGFR is the method of measurement.