Creatinine & eGFR (Kidney Function)
Also known as: RFT, Renal function test, Kidney test, gurde ka test, gurdon ka test
Creatinine is a waste product cleared by the kidneys. eGFR is calculated from creatinine, age and sex to estimate how well your kidneys filter blood.
Why it's ordered
Screening people with diabetes or high blood pressure for kidney disease, and checking kidneys before and during some medicines.
Preparation
No fasting needed. Avoid heavy exercise and very large meat meals in the 24 hours before.
Typical adult values
| Creatinine (men) | about 0.7–1.3 mg/dL |
|---|---|
| Creatinine (women) | about 0.6–1.1 mg/dL |
| eGFR | 90+ normal; 60–89 mildly reduced |
| Chronic kidney disease | eGFR below 60 for more than 3 months |
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's high
High creatinine (low eGFR) means the kidneys are filtering less. It can be temporary (dehydration) or long-term (chronic kidney disease).
If it's low
Low creatinine is usually not a concern; it is common with low muscle mass.
Good to know
Labs should report eGFR using the CKD-EPI 2021 equation, which does not use race. One abnormal result should be repeated — kidney disease is diagnosed over at least 3 months.
Common questions
Do I need to fast for a kidney function test?
No fasting needed. Avoid heavy exercise and very large meat meals in the 24 hours before.
Is an eGFR of 70 normal?
It is slightly below normal: 90+ is normal and 60–89 is mildly reduced. A single result is not a diagnosis, and kidney disease is diagnosed over at least 3 months. Always use the range printed on your report.
What does high creatinine mean?
High creatinine (low eGFR) means the kidneys are filtering less. It can be temporary (dehydration) or long-term (chronic kidney disease).
Does one abnormal result mean kidney disease?
Not on its own. One abnormal result should be repeated, because kidney disease is diagnosed over at least 3 months. Always use the range printed on your report.