eGFR · low result
What does a low eGFR mean?
Short answer
eGFR estimates how much blood the kidneys filter per minute. Below 60 mL/min/1.73m² suggests reduced kidney function; if it persists for more than three months it meets the definition of chronic kidney disease. A single low value is often dehydration, a high-protein meal, creatine, exercise or a medication effect, so it's repeated — with a urine albumin test — before conclusions are drawn.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for eGFR?
- age 18+: 60.0 – 120 mL/min/1.73m2
Sustained values below 60 can indicate chronic kidney disease and warrant follow-up.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: eGFR biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low eGFR?
- Dehydration or a transient creatinine rise (exercise, creatine, meat)
- Chronic kidney disease from diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerular disease
- Medications: NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, diuretics, some antibiotics
- Urinary obstruction
- High muscle mass (creatinine-based formulas underestimate eGFR)
- Normal aging (eGFR declines gradually)
What symptoms go with low eGFR?
- None until advanced
- Swelling, fatigue, nocturia, foamy urine, high blood pressure
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Repeat in 2–4 weeks, hydrated and rested
- Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (the second axis of kidney staging)
- Cystatin C eGFR for confirmation
- Blood pressure, A1c, medication review
KDIGO recommends measuring eGFR (alongside urine albumin) at least once a year in people with chronic kidney disease, and more often at more advanced stages or higher risk — as frequently as every 1–3 months. Adults with diabetes or high blood pressure are generally checked yearly even with normal kidney function.
How do you recheck eGFR?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kidney Health Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $64.99 | Yes | 2–4 business days |
| Total Body Panel | Panel · 49 tests | $499.99 | Yes | 5–10 business days |
| Renal Panel | Test · 10 biomarkers | $23.99 | No | 2–4 business days |
Common questions
What eGFR is chronic kidney disease?
Below 60 mL/min/1.73m² for more than three months, or any eGFR with persistent kidney damage markers such as albuminuria. 60–89 with no other markers is not CKD.
Can eGFR go back up?
Yes if the cause was transient — dehydration, a drug, an obstruction. Chronic damage doesn't typically reverse, but its progression can be slowed.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.