I recently found out the GFR calculation changed. I was always monitored by CKD MDRD type GFR calculation. All my historic records for GFR monitoring were erased in my records and they started new this Sept. with the CKD EPI creatinine equation.

"On September 24, the Task Force’s Final Report recommended the use of the new eGFR 2021 CKD EPI creatinine equation that estimates kidney function without using race. The Task Force also recommended increased use of cystatin C combined with creatinine for a reliable way to check kidney function."

My GFR is relatively the same, improved a bit from 25 to 30. Theoretically, kicked me back into 3rd stage rather than 4th stage, according to numbers. But more important is stability over time. The numbers go up and down, as they have for me over 8 years but remain somewhat stable. My BUN shows constant dehydration, but that's part of my disease. I'm always dehydrated, no matter how much water I drink.

I used to get upset when my numbers went down and confused when they went back up. There are many factors why that happens. Time of day of the blood draws, exercise the day before, how much water you drink, etc.

You can get blood draws every 3-6 months and watch the pattern. It's really not a concern unless something drastic shows up. A huge drop in GFR or increase in creatinine. I've learned all this over time and through my appointment at Mayo with a Nephrologist. Blood work is basically monitoring, so there is no reason to panic about number changes. As I stated in a previous post a while ago, my Neph at Mayo said many people live a long time on very low GFR numbers. There are so many factors, what kind of disease you have, how quickly changes take place, etc. It's important to get the right diagnosis. I was misdiagnosed by my local Nephrologist. Since then that disease has been taken off my records (AKPKD). I am continuing my relationship with the Mayo Clinic although there is no treatment for my "real" disease. Much of this has to do with how you feel. That's what you should be monitoring. I have no symptoms.

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