Part 2 of the National Service Framework for Renal Disease recommends that the management of kidney disease should be based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
The eGFR is calculated using the serum creatinine, but takes into account the patient’s age, sex and ethnicity. It is a much more accurate way of assessing kidney function than serum creatinine on its own and enables consistent and effective treatment for patients with all levels of kidney function.
From January 2006 the pathology labs at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust will routinely report eGFR as well as serum creatinine. The eGFR can be calculated from an ordinary U & E sample, so no additional blood needs to be taken.
eGFR simplifies the management of kidney disease by enabling individuals to be categorised according to their level of kidney function. The NSF for renal disease recommends the use of five categories of chronic kidney disease.
