Your Kidney Health: What Does a GFR of 87.9 Mean?

Health check-up issues

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my adult health check-up I had in May.
Recently, I reviewed my test results and noticed that my glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is 87.9, with a note indicating mild chronic kidney injury.
What does this mean? Does it imply that my kidneys are not functioning well? At that time, when I reviewed the report, everything else was normal except for slightly elevated cholesterol levels.
I don't feel any other symptoms, and I drink more than 2000cc of warm water daily.
I'm a bit worried about potential kidney issues.
Is this GFR value too low? Should I consider doing another check-up next year? Currently, I exercise for an hour daily and do squats.
How should I take care of my health moving forward?

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/09

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) indeed indicates kidney function, but there are many algorithms for more accurate measurements.
The most precise method is to collect 24-hour urine for calculation.
However, based on your description, if this is just a routine health check for adults, it typically involves a blood test to measure serum creatinine.
The estimated GFR is then calculated based on your serum creatinine level, age, and weight, which can lead to some discrepancies.

Regarding normal serum creatinine values, in children, levels can exceed 100 µmol/L.
Although levels below 100 µmol/L may be classified as early signs of kidney issues, it is important to note that these values naturally decrease with age.
For your age, a level of 87.9 µmol/L is not considered abnormal.
Therefore, I recommend regular health check-ups for monitoring.
If you have concerns, you can visit a nephrology clinic for a 24-hour urine test to obtain more accurate values.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2019/10/09

More Info

Understanding your kidney health is crucial, especially as we age. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a key indicator of kidney function, and it reflects how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. A GFR of 87.9 ml/min/1.73 m², while slightly below the normal range (which is typically considered to be 90 or above), is not necessarily alarming, especially if you are asymptomatic and have no other concerning lab results.

The term "mild chronic kidney injury" or "mild chronic kidney disease (CKD)" indicates that there is some degree of kidney impairment. CKD is classified into stages based on GFR values. Stage 1 is defined as a GFR of 90 or above, while Stage 2 is between 60 and 89. Your GFR of 87.9 places you in Stage 2, which is considered mild. It’s important to note that a GFR can fluctuate due to various factors, including hydration status, diet, and physical activity.

In your case, drinking 2000cc of water daily is beneficial for kidney health, as proper hydration helps the kidneys function optimally. Regular exercise, such as walking and strength training, is also advantageous, as it can help maintain a healthy weight and improve overall cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to kidney function.

While your cholesterol levels are slightly elevated, this is a common issue and can often be managed through dietary changes and exercise. It’s essential to monitor your cholesterol and maintain a balanced diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Regarding your concerns about whether your kidneys are "bad," it's essential to remember that a GFR of 87.9 does not mean your kidneys are failing. Many people live healthy lives with a GFR in this range, especially if they maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, it is advisable to have regular check-ups, including blood tests and urine tests, to monitor your kidney function and overall health.

If you are feeling anxious about your kidney health, consider discussing your concerns with a nephrologist (kidney specialist). They may recommend further tests, such as a 24-hour urine collection, to provide a more accurate assessment of your kidney function. Additionally, they can guide you on lifestyle modifications that can help protect your kidneys.

In summary, while a GFR of 87.9 indicates mild kidney impairment, it is not necessarily a cause for alarm, especially if you are asymptomatic and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular monitoring and proactive health management are key to ensuring your kidneys remain healthy. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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