eGFR decreased 20 in one year

[Hockey-mom]

For the past few years, my eGFR has always been around 116-119. However, my recent eGFR rate was 96. I know this is still in the normal range, but I’m wondering why it might drop 20 in one year. My Creatinine levels are always good but on the lower end (in the 50s) and, although its reading is still also very good, it has increased to 69. No protein in urine, but microscopic hematuria in the urine for the past few years. Does anyone know what this might mean and if I should be concerned? Although my eGFR is still normal range, I’m worried about it declining so fast as this rate of decline isn’t sustainable.

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador]

First, both your creatinine and eGFR can be effected by your hydration, stress, exercise, eating a high protein meal, etc. So if you are low on fluids it can make your lab value change.Also, a diagnose of CKD is not made from a single yearly test. Doctor's look at a trend over time. Labs are usually done every 3 months or so. And doctors not only look at your creatinine but potassium. calcium and your urine for urea, WBC, RBC, etc.

If you are really concerned about it see if you can have your labs repeated. You didn't say what your age is? As we age our creatinine rises and eGFR falls. I cannot stress enough the importance of being hydrated. Your change could be the result of not drinking enough water before you had your labs.

I have had a transplant and my creatinine is very stable at 0.9. But if I don't drink enough the day before I have my labs done, my creatinine will rise to 1.2 - 1.3.

Take care.

[ILMA54]

As WYOAnne noted, hydration does have an effect. The results can also change if/or appear to change, if you get results from different labs. I currently am experiencing end stage renal disease (GFR =12), and I have been on the transplant list for 2-1/2 yrs.

While no one can predict how long it takes to see a decline, I first experienced a creatinine level of 1.5-1.6 twenty-seven years ago, and have been below 30 for more than a decade. BTW, I am 56 yo, and I only have one kidney.

Best bet at this point might be to repeat the labs.

[123jwarren]

Hi! I have a similar experience! In the last 18 mos, I've gone from 110 (for June 2017, June 2018, June 2019) to 91, 91, and as of last week 77!! NO ONE is concerned. I spoke to my PCP and a holistic kidney specialist. I contacted a nephrologist who was willing to consult with me, but saw no reason to when I shared my lab results. My own theory is that I was over supplementing due to Covid, and have just stopped all of that (Vitamin D, Zinc, Airborne). I cannot figure out what else would cause that. It is frustrating. I emphasize!

[Springmelody]

Hi, same here. eGFR dropped from 107 15 months ago to 75 this month. My doctor is not concerned at all. I have some edema though since I was in a car accident 2 years ago - now am wondering if it's something to do with my kidneys.