Detection of Reduced eGFR among Adults with Normal Serum Creatinine: A Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of reduced glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) among adults with normal serum creatinine and to compare eGFR values calculated using the Cockcroft–Gault (CG) and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equations.
Study Design: Cross-sectional study
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pathology, Services Hospital, Lahore, from 1st August 2023 to 31st October 2023.
Materials and Methods: A total of 180 adults aged between 45 and 70 years were enrolled in the study. To reduce potential confounding effects on renal function assessment, participants with normal serum creatinine levels were included, whereas those who were fat or malnourished were omitted. After obtaining each participant's informed written consent, data were gathered using a systematic, pre-designed Performa. Relevant demographic characteristics and clinical information were systematically recorded and subsequently
analyzed. Serum creatinine was measured, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Cockcroft–Gault (CG) and MDRD equations.
Results: The mean serum creatinine level was 0.65 ± 0.15 mg/dL. The mean eGFR calculated using the Cockcroft–Gault equation was 117.03 ± 27.55 mL/min, whereas the mean eGFR using the MDRD equation was 112.23 ± 24.20 mL/min/1.73 m². The difference between the two equations was statistically significant (p <0.001).
Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that reduced eGFR may occur in adults with normal serum creatinine levels. Reliance solely on serum creatinine may lead to underdiagnosis of renal impairment. Routine reporting of eGFR, particularly using the MDRD equation, may facilitate earlier detection of renal dysfunction.