The 2021 CKD-EPI creatinine equation estimates Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) using serum creatinine, age, and sex. This updated version removed race as a variable to provide more equitable care across populations. It's currently recommended by KDIGO guidelines for routine clinical practice.
Limitations
The equation may be less accurate in certain populations including elderly patients, those with unusual muscle mass, people at extremes of body size, or those following unusual diets. It is not validated for those under 18 or over 90 years old, during pregnancy, or in acute kidney injury. Results should be interpreted alongside clinical findings, urine studies, and kidney imaging when appropriate.
Reference
Lesley A Inker, Nwamaka D Eneanya, Josef Coresh et al. New Creatinine- and Cystatin C-Based Equations to Estimate GFR without Race. N Engl J Med. 2021 Nov 4;385(19):1737-1749.
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