Understand Your Kidney Test Results

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Creatinine and eGFR: Creatinine is a waste product measured in blood. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) uses creatinine and other information to estimate how well the kidneys filter. A change should be interpreted with earlier results, medications, hydration and urine testing.

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Chronic kidney disease (CKD): CKD means kidney damage or reduced function lasting at least three months. An isolated abnormal test does not always mean chronic disease. Urine albumin helps assess risk even when eGFR is relatively preserved.

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CKD stages: Stages describe kidney function, from stages 1–2 with evidence of kidney damage to stage 3 with moderately reduced filtration, stage 4 with severely reduced filtration and stage 5 with kidney failure. The trend and urine protein matter alongside the stage.

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When to see a nephrologist: Declining kidney function, persistent urine protein or blood, difficult-to-control blood pressure and significant electrolyte abnormalities may warrant specialist evaluation. Your clinician can advise how soon you should be seen.

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Dialysis basics: Hemodialysis filters blood through a machine; peritoneal dialysis uses the abdominal lining. Starting dialysis depends on symptoms, complications and the overall clinical picture, rather than one creatinine value alone.

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Explore the questions below or read our kidney health articles. This information is educational; review your own results and treatment choices with your care team.