[Estimation of glomerular filtration rate in primary care: prevalence of chronic kidney disease and impact on referral to nephrology]. / Estimación del filtrado glomerular en atención primaria: prevalencia de enfermedad renal crónica y repercusión sobre la derivación a Nefrología.

Data were collected in 18.922 patients attending Primary Care Centers in Alcañiz (Spain), mean age 59,96 +/- 17 years, 42,9 % males and 57,1 % females. The prevalence of eGFR was: stage 3 (30-59 ml/min/1,73 m2) 15,7 %; stage 4 (15-29 ml/min/1,73 m2) 0,6 %; stage 5 no dialysis (GFR < 15 ml/min/1.73 m2) 0,1 %. This prevalence increased with age and 32 % of patients attending Primary Care services over 65 years presented a eGFR < 60 ml/min/1,73 m2. Of the total patients with eGFR < 60 ml/min/1,73 m2, 26 % had normal serum creatinine levels. Protocol implementation could implied for the Renal Unit an increase in the number of patients, specially the oldest ones. This study documents the substantial prevalence of significantly abnormal renal function among patients at Primary Care level and the importance of Primary Care collaboration in their early identification and appropriate management.