The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measure of how well the kidneys are functioning to remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. The GFR is a measure of the rate at which blood is filtered through the glomeruli, which are the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys that filter waste and excess fluid from the blood.
The GFR is measured in milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters of body surface area (mL/min/1.73m2), which takes into account differences in body size and age. The GFR can be estimated using a formula that takes into account the patient’s age, sex, and serum creatinine level, which is a waste product that is filtered by the kidneys. Alternatively, the GFR can be measured directly using a test that involves injecting a tracer into the blood and measuring its clearance from the blood over time.
The GFR is an important measure of kidney function, as it provides information about how well the kidneys are able to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. A GFR that is below normal range may indicate kidney dysfunction or disease, which can lead to a buildup of waste and excess fluid in the body. Common causes of decreased GFR include diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, and certain medications.
Treatment for decreased GFR depends on the underlying cause and may include medications to control blood pressure, blood sugar, or inflammation, as well as lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications and exercise. In severe cases, dialysis or kidney transplant may be necessary to maintain kidney function.
