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Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

eGFR measures the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood, providing an assessment of overall kidney function.

Quick summary

eGFR assesses kidney function by estimating the filtration rate of waste from the blood.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
mL/min/1.73m²
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
CKD-EPI eGFR Calculator, MDRD eGFR Calculator
interpretation: {"text":"60–120 mL/min/1.73m²: Normal kidney function.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"<60 mL/min/1.73m²: Possible kidney disease; further evaluation required.","label":"Abnormal"}

The Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a critical biomarker used to evaluate how well the kidneys are functioning. It estimates the volume of blood that is filtered by the kidneys per minute, adjusted for body surface area.

A normal eGFR is typically between 60 and 120 mL/min/1.73m². Values below this range may indicate kidney disease or dysfunction, while higher values are generally not a cause for concern.

eGFR is calculated using a formula that includes serum creatinine levels, age, gender, and race. It is a key diagnostic tool for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and helps in staging the severity of the condition.

Frequently asked questions

How is eGFR calculated?
eGFR is calculated using a formula that takes into account serum creatinine levels, age, gender, and race.
What does a low eGFR mean?
A low eGFR may indicate kidney disease or dysfunction and requires further medical evaluation.
  1. 1
    National Kidney Foundation: eGFRSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic: eGFR TestSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy