HomeAnswersNephrologylow estimated glomerular filtration rate (EGFR)

Can a decrease in eGFR rate be a cause for concern?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 41-year-old woman with no diabetes or high blood pressure. In a recent blood test, my eGFR was 63.44 mL/min/1.73m², and my creatinine was 90 nmol/L. All other renal function tests (urea, potassium, sodium, bicarbonate, and chloride) are within normal range. In the lab results report, it says "mild decrease" of renal function as the eGFR is 63 mL/min. Is this a cause for concern?

Kindly guide.

Answered by Dr. Yash Kathuria

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Yash Kathuria is a dedicated and skilled physician specializing in Diabetology, General Medicine, Medical Gastroenterology, Neurology, Pulmonology (Asthma), and Internal Medicine. He focuses on personalized patient care, chronic disease management, early diagnosis, and preventive health strategies. His expertise spans diabetes control, cardiovascular health, kidney and liver-related disorders, and respiratory care, ensuring holistic and evidence-based treatment for every patient.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I read your query and understand your concern regarding your GFR (glomerular filtration rate) level. So, as I can see in your reports (attachment removed to protect patient’s identity), your creatinine level is normal along with other parameters. GFR depends on many factors, like age, muscle mass, weight, and amount of protein intake. The formula used to calculate GFR is not very reliable. To confirm whether it is a natural reduction of GFR with age or if it is due to kidney issues, you need to get your cystatin C level checked through blood. Moreover, get the urine protein creatinine ratio to look for protein leakage in urine. An ultrasound of the kidneys to rule out structural changes in the kidneys. I hope this helps. Kindly revert in case of any further queries.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you so much for your reply. I will have the other tests done as per your suggestion. My ESR is also a bit high (28 mm at one hour). Is this a cause for concern?

Answered by Dr. Yash Kathuria

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Yash Kathuria is a dedicated and skilled physician specializing in Diabetology, General Medicine, Medical Gastroenterology, Neurology, Pulmonology (Asthma), and Internal Medicine. He focuses on personalized patient care, chronic disease management, early diagnosis, and preventive health strategies. His expertise spans diabetes control, cardiovascular health, kidney and liver-related disorders, and respiratory care, ensuring holistic and evidence-based treatment for every patient.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com

It is mildly raised; do not worry about it. High BMI (body mass index) leads to raised ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). I would advise you to work on your diet and lifestyle to lose weight. Many things would be taken care of if you do that.

I hope I cleared all your doubts.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At September 17, 2023
Reviewed At December 9, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Yash Kathuria is a dedicated and skilled physician specializing in Diabetology, General Medicine, Medical Gastroenterology, Neurology, Pulmonology (Asthma), and Internal Medicine. He focuses on personalized patient care, chronic disease management, early diagnosis, and preventive health strategies. His expertise spans diabetes control, cardiovascular health, kidney and liver-related disorders, and respiratory care, ensuring holistic and evidence-based treatment for every patient.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Yash Kathuria is a dedicated and skilled physician specializing in Diabetology, General Medicine, Medical Gastroenterology, Neurology, Pulmonology (Asthma), and Internal Medicine. He focuses on personalized patient care, chronic disease management, early diagnosis, and preventive health strategies. His expertise spans diabetes control, cardiovascular health, kidney and liver-related disorders, and respiratory care, ensuring holistic and evidence-based treatment for every patient.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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