Stages of chronic kidney disease

Content provided by Healthwise

Stages of chronic kidney disease

The stages of chronic kidney disease are determined by the glomerular filtration rate. Glomerular filtration is the process by which the kidneys filter the blood, removing excess wastes and fluids. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a calculation that determines how well the blood is filtered by the kidneys. It is one way to measure kidney function.

Glomerular filtration rate is usually calculated using a mathematical formula that compares a person's size, age, sex, and race to serum creatinine levels. A GFR under 60 mL/min/1.73 m² may indicate kidney disease—the lower the GFR number, the worse the kidney function. This number is an estimate. It may not be a good measure of kidney health in some people, such as the very young or very old, amputees, or obese people.

Chronic kidney disease is defined as either kidney damage or GFR of less than 60 for longer than 3 months.

**Stages of chronic kidney disease**
Stage	Description	GFR	What this means to you
1	Kidney damage with normal or high GFR	90 or above	Your doctor will try to find the cause of your kidney disease and begin treatment. Keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg. If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar levels. See your doctor regularly to monitor your condition.
2	Kidney damage with mildly low GFR	60–89	Your doctor will estimate how quickly your disease is progressing. Control your blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Continue regular monitoring.
3	Kidney damage with moderately low GFR	30–59	Your doctor will check you for complications, such as anemia and bone disease, and begin treatment if needed. Continue monitoring.
4	Kidney damage with severely low GFR	15–29	Decide what type of treatment you want if kidney failure develops. Continue treatment and monitoring.
5	Kidney failure	Below 15	Start dialysis or have a kidney transplant.

Credits

Author	Lila Havens
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Michele Cronen
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	D.C. Mendelssohn, MD, FRCPC - Nephrology
Last Updated	November 17, 2005

Last updated:	November 17, 2005
Author:	Lila Havens
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, D.C. Mendelssohn, MD, FRCPC - Nephrology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Michele Cronen

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.