eGFR 92: What This Kidney Function Test Result Means
Received an eGFR result of 92? This number indicates normal kidney function. Learn about the context needed for a complete view of your kidney health.
An estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) test is a blood test used to assess how well your kidneys are functioning. A specific number, such as 92, can be confusing without understanding the context. This number provides a snapshot of your kidney health, estimating the efficiency of their filtering process. Understanding what this result means involves looking at the test’s mechanics, medical guidelines, and individual health factors.
Understanding the eGFR Test
Your kidneys contain millions of tiny filtering units called glomeruli, which clean your blood by removing waste products and excess fluid. The eGFR test measures how effectively these filters are working. The calculation begins with a blood test measuring creatinine, a waste product from muscle wear and tear.
If kidney function declines, its level in the blood rises. A formula then combines this creatinine level with factors like age and sex to produce the eGFR number.
Interpreting an eGFR Result of 92
An eGFR result of 92 is considered within the normal, healthy range for an adult. Medical guidelines define a normal eGFR as being 90 mL/min/1.73 m² or higher. A result like 92 suggests that the kidneys are functioning properly and efficiently filtering waste. It is often useful to think of the eGFR number as a percentage of normal kidney function.
To provide a more complete picture, healthcare providers use a staging system for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Stage 1 CKD is characterized by an eGFR of 90 or higher, but it must be accompanied by other evidence of kidney damage, such as protein in the urine.
If your eGFR is 92 and you have no other signs of kidney issues, you do not have CKD. In this scenario, the result simply points to normal kidney function. The number alone does not automatically place someone in Stage 1; other clinical evidence is required.
Factors That Can Influence eGFR Levels
Several variables can influence an eGFR reading. Kidney function naturally declines as part of the aging process, and an eGFR can decrease slightly with each decade of life, even in individuals without any kidney disease. Therefore, what is considered a normal eGFR can vary depending on your age group.
Lifestyle and temporary conditions also affect the results. Dehydration or consuming a high-protein meal shortly before the test can cause a temporary dip in your eGFR. Since the formula relies on creatinine, body composition plays a role. Individuals with high muscle mass may have a lower eGFR that doesn’t accurately reflect true kidney function, while those with lower muscle mass might have a higher eGFR. Certain medications can also interfere with the test’s accuracy.
When to Follow Up with a Doctor
While an eGFR of 92 is an encouraging result, it is best to discuss it with your healthcare provider. This is particularly important if you have risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney problems. Your doctor can interpret your result in the context of your overall health profile.
A complete assessment of kidney health involves more than one test. Your doctor will consider your eGFR alongside a urine test called the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR). This test checks for small amounts of protein in your urine, which can be an early sign of kidney damage. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.