eGFR
Also known as: Calculated Glomerular Filtration Rate; cGFR
Formal name: Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate
Related tests: GFR measured by inulin clearance (see FAQ); Creatinine; Creatinine clearance; Microalbumin; Cystatin C; Urine protein
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measure of the function of your kidneys. Glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidney that allow waste products to be removed from the blood, while preventing loss of important constituents including proteins and blood cells. The rate refers to the amount of blood that is filtered per minute. Measuring GFR directly is challenging, so most often an estimate – the eGFR – is used.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is taken by needle from a vein in the arm; depending on the formula used, your age, gender, race, height, and weight may also be needed.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
