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Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) based on serum creatinine and other prior assessment data

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test estimates how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood using a formula that includes your serum creatinine level and other factors from your medical history.

Quick summary

["Your eGFR helps doctors assess kidney function and guide treatment decisions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53695-3
Short code
GA Est from prior assess
Synonyms
GA Est from prior assess
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
clinical-estimated-from-prior-assessment
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is eGFR Used For?

eGFR is primarily used to monitor kidney function over time, detect early kidney damage, and adjust medications that may affect the kidneys. It’s often checked alongside other tests to ensure your kidneys are working as they should.

How Is eGFR Calculated?

Your eGFR is calculated using a formula that combines your serum creatinine level (a waste product filtered by the kidneys) with other factors like age, sex, and race. This test does not measure creatinine directly but estimates kidney function based on prior assessments.

Why Might You Need This Test?

You may need an eGFR test if you have risk factors for kidney problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, a family history of kidney disease, or if you’re taking medications that can affect kidney function.

What Does an Abnormal eGFR Mean?

An eGFR below the normal range may indicate kidney damage or reduced function. This doesn’t always mean you have kidney disease, but it’s important for your doctor to investigate further and recommend any necessary steps.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

eGFR (from prior assessment)

Frequently asked questions

Why was this test ordered?
Your doctor may have ordered this test to monitor kidney function, check for early signs of kidney disease, or adjust medications that could impact kidney health. It’s also useful for people with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, which can affect kidney function over time.
What are the typical reference ranges for eGFR?
Reference ranges for eGFR vary by lab and can depend on the specific formula used. Generally, a healthy eGFR is considered to be above 90 mL/min/1.73 m², but this can differ. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your individual health profile.
Can I influence my eGFR results?
Yes! Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—such as staying hydrated, managing blood pressure and blood sugar, avoiding smoking, and eating a balanced diet—can help support kidney function and improve your eGFR over time.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy