Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimation in Adults: Myths and Promises.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In daily practice, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is estimated with equations including renal biomarkers. Among these biomarkers, serum creatinine remains the most used. However, there are many limitations with serum creatinine, which we will discuss in the current review. We will also discuss how creatinine-based equations have been developed and what we can expect from them in terms of performance to estimate GFR. SUMMARY: Different creatinine-based equations have been proposed. We will show the advantages of the recent European Kidney Function Consortium equation. This equation can be used in children and adults. This equation can also be used with some flexibility in different populations. KEY MESSAGES GFR is estimated by creatinine-based equations, but the most important for nephrologists is probably to know the limitations of these equations.