Determining the rate of glomerular filtration is the primary means by which physicians assess kidney function in health and disease. In this session, the physiologic principles of glomerular filtration are described along with the evolution of methods to assess this aspect of renal function testing in clinical practice. The session culminates with a discussion of the newest recommended estimating equation (CKD-EPI 2021), which removes a long-employed race coefficient in its calculation. In addition, we outline recent guidance on implementation published by a workgroup of the National Kidney Foundation-Laboratory Engagement Initiative (NKF-LEI).

Learning Objectives:

• Describe historical and modern laboratory methods for estimating the glomerular filtration rate in clinical practice
• Outline the benefits of the new CKD-EPI 2021 eGFR equation and describe best practices for effective implementation.

Author(s):

• Kelly Wilhelms PhD, DABCC, MLS(ASCP)

Relevant Certifications:

• Certified Laboratory Consultant (CLC)
• Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA)
• Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT)
• Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
• Molecular Diagnostics Technologist (MDT)
• Patient Care Technician (PCT)
• Phlebotomy Technician (RPT)

Launch Date: 2022

Enrollment Expiration: 180 days after purchase