Lab results worry me - Kidney Disorders Message Board

fancee_face71 · 01-19-2009, 09:44 AM

Ok, just picked up lab results and there is something called GFR on there. I have never had it on my labs before. I have labs done regularly due to having a thyroidectomy Aug '07 (had thyroid cancer). I understand that it (GFR) is to check renal function? Anyway, my number is 75 and it does not list a range but does have a note:
"GFR result above is calculated as if race is Caucasian. If pt is African American, multiply GFR by 1.210. A calculated GFR of ,60 mL/min/1.73 m2 suggests chronic kidney disease if found consistently over a period of at least 3 months. A single determination is not diagnostic."

I looked on the National Kidney Foundation site and according to their chart I have Stage 2 Kidney damage and mild decrease in GFR and the range was 60 to 89.

I am Caucasian. So does that mean that my 75 indicates that I have mild kidney disease?? How can I turn this around and improve my GFR?

Thank you in advance for your time and help,
Bilinda

writeleft · 01-19-2009, 12:27 PM

The GFR relates to the percentage of filtration rate, your kidneys are operating at. You did not mention your age, but your GFR does lower as you age.

As far as increasing your GFR, it can be done in some cases. I have had terrible loss of kidney function due to high blood pressure...my GFR down to 17 at it's lowest, and one step away from dialysis. BUT, today (5 years later), it has increased to almost 40. This was due to maintaining healthy blood pressure, medications to protect my kidneys, and a renal diet.

I wish you well!

fancee_face71 · 01-19-2009, 01:26 PM

Thanks for info.

I am 37.5 yrs old. I have also been a type 1 diabetic since Nov. '04. I went into Ketoacidosis and Im wondering if this isnt what lowered my filteration rate. I guess I am just so shocked about it because I have never had it tested and to see that my Endo tested it without my knowledge or even so much as ever mentioning to me that this is something to watch...just confuses me a bit.

Is there a "magic" number? Like what number would be considered "normal"?