Automated reporting of eGFR: A useful tool for identifying and managing kidney disease

here is a substantial body of evidence that the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) provides improved understanding of a patient’s renal function, which is the only valid reason for which a serum creatinine (SCr) concentration measurement should be requested. Here, we summarise this evidence and outline the benefits associated with automated reporting of eGFR. Accuracy of eGFR across a range of individuals MDRD eGFR has been demonstrated to provide unbiased and acceptably accurate estimates of measured GFR across a broad range of individuals with impaired kidney function. The performance characteristics of different GFR-estimating formulas, compared against radioisotopicall y measured GFR, were comprehensively reviewed in the CARI (Caring for Australasians with Renal Impairment) guidelines in 2005. 1 The guidelines concluded that the current evidence suggests that the abbreviated MDRD formula is the best available equation for automated laboratory reporting of eGFR, based on its extensive validation in over 8000 subjects against appropriate GFR reference methods, its demonstrated superior precision and accuracy compared with the Cockcroft–Gault equation in CKD [chronic kidney disease] patients with a GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 and its greater practicality (weight information and body surface area correction not required).