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Creatinine clearance is an important diagnostic test that allows you to assess kidney function.It is worth understanding what creatinine is, how creatinine clearance works and when it is worth performing a GFR test.This article will also discuss creatinine clearance standards for women and men, and what the results of decreased and increased GFR mean.
What is creatinine?
Creatinine is an organic chemical compound formed in the muscles as a result of the breakdown of creatine.It is a byproduct of muscle metabolism and enters the bloodstream to be excreted from the body by the kidneys.The level of creatinine in the blood is stable and independent of diet, therefore it is an important marker for assessing kidney function.
What is creatinine clearance?
Creatinine clearance, also known as GFR (short for Glomerular Filtration Rate), is an indicator of how well the kidneys filter creatinine from the blood.This is an important parameter for assessing kidney function because it allows us to determine how much blood the kidneys pass through their filtration structures in one minute.The higher the GFR, the better the kidney function.
When should a gfr test be performed?
Creatinine clearance (GFR) testing is usually recommended in the following cases:
- If kidney disease is suspected.
- To monitor patients with already diagnosed kidney diseases.
- When assessing the effect of drugs on kidney function.
- When screening people with risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes, hypertension or smoking.
What is creatinine clearance testing?
Creatinine clearance testing involves measuring the concentration of creatinine in a blood sample and urine collected over a specified period of time.Based on these results, GFR, i.e. the creatinine filtration rate by the kidneys, is calculated.This test is relatively simple and non-invasive, but requires accuracy in sample collection and compliance with the doctor’s recommendations.
Creatinine clearance – norm for women and men.what does decreased and increased gfr mean?
Creatinine clearance standards may vary slightly depending on the laboratory that performs the test, but it is generally accepted that for healthy adult men the GFR is approximately 90-120 ml/min/1.73 m², and for healthy women it is slightly lower and amounts to approximately 80-110 ml/min/1.73 m².
A reduced GFR may suggest problems with kidney function, which may be caused by various conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, infections, inflammation, or diabetes.In turn, increased GFR may be the result of dehydration or the use of certain medications.
Your suggestions
If you have any concerns about your kidney health or have a doctor’s recommendation to get a GFR test, it’s always a good idea to do so.Regular monitoring of kidney function can help detect problems at an early stage and provide appropriate treatment.Also remember about a healthy lifestyle that has a positive effect on kidney function, such as a proper diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about kidney health, we recommend checking out our articles on chronic kidney disease, a diet to support kidney function, and the importance of hydration for urinary health.
Creatinine clearance (GFR) testing is an important diagnostic tool for assessing kidney health.Thanks to it, you can detect problems with kidney function earlier and take appropriate actions.Remember that regular visits to the doctor and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are the key to maintaining the good condition of your kidneys.