Glomerular filtration rate
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood, each minute.
Pronunciation
Glo-mer-u-lar Fil-tration Rate
Etymology
The term "glomerular" is derived from the word "glomerulus" which is a diminutive form of the Latin word "glomus" meaning "ball of yarn". It refers to the network of tiny blood vessels in the kidneys. "Filtration rate" refers to the speed at which the kidneys can filter blood.
Function
GFR is used by doctors to determine the stage of kidney disease. A lower GFR indicates that the kidneys are not working properly and may have been damaged. Conversely, a higher GFR suggests the kidneys are functioning well.
Calculation
GFR is calculated using a formula that includes age, gender, body size, and serum creatinine level. There are several different equations healthcare professionals can use to calculate GFR, but the most commonly used one is the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation.
Related Terms
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A long-term condition where the kidneys do not work effectively.
- Creatinine: A waste product produced by muscles from the breakdown of a compound called creatine.
- Glomeruli: Tiny filtering units in the kidneys where blood is cleaned.
- Kidney Disease: A condition in which the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as healthy kidneys.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Glomerular filtration rate
- Wikipedia's article - Glomerular filtration rate
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