Overview
The stages of chronic kidney disease are determined mostly by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Glomerular filtration is the process by which the kidneys filter the blood, removing excess wastes and fluids. The eGFR is a calculation that determines how well the blood is filtered by the kidneys. It is one way to measure kidney function. Your doctor will also use a test that measures the amount of protein in your urine and the cause of your kidney disease to guide your treatment.
The eGFR is often calculated using a formula that includes a person's age, sex, and serum creatinine levels. An eGFR under 60 mL/min/1.73 m² may indicate kidney disease. The lower the eGFR number, the worse the kidney function. This number is an estimate. It may not be a good measure of kidney health in some people, such as the very young or very old, amputees, or obese people. In some cases, eGFR may also be estimated with a 24-hour urine collection.
Chronic kidney disease is defined as either kidney damage or an eGFR of less than 60 for longer than 3 months.
Stage |
Description |
eGFR |
What this means to you |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Kidney damage without symptoms |
90 or above |
|
2 |
Mild decline in kidney function |
60–89 |
|
3a |
Moderate decline in kidney function |
45–59 |
|
3b |
Moderate to severe decline in kidney function |
30-44 |
|
4 |
Severe decline in kidney function |
15–29 |
|
5 |
Kidney failure |
Below 15 |
|
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: October 11, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: October 11, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.