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Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) using Serum Creatinine

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

This test estimates how well your kidneys are filtering waste products from your blood using a simple blood sample. It helps assess kidney function over time.

Quick summary

["Your eGFR helps doctors track kidney health and plan care."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104155-7
Short code
LV US.3D.A2C+Estimated
Synonyms
LV US.3D.A2C+Estimated
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-d-a-c-estimated
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order an eGFR test if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or frequent urination, or if you have conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes that can affect kidney function. It’s also used to monitor kidney disease progression or response to treatment.

What Does the Test Measure?

The test measures how well your kidneys filter waste (like creatinine) from your blood. It uses a formula that combines your serum creatinine level with your age, gender, and body size to estimate kidney function.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within 1–3 business days.

What Are the Results?

Results are reported as an eGFR number, which indicates your kidney function level. Lower eGFR values suggest poorer kidney function, but exact interpretations depend on clinical context and your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

eGFR (Serum Creatinine)

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Low eGFR Mean?
A lower eGFR may indicate kidney damage or disease. It can help doctors diagnose conditions like chronic kidney disease, track how well treatments are working, or guide decisions about medications that may affect kidney function.
What If My eGFR Is High?
A high eGFR suggests your kidneys are filtering blood efficiently. However, it doesn’t rule out other kidney-related issues, so doctors may still monitor you closely if you have risk factors.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health, symptoms, and risk factors. Regular monitoring may be recommended if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
  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