eGFR Calculation Formula Children

Bedside Schwartz Equation:

\[ eGFR = 0.413 \times \frac{Height}{Scr} \]

Estimated GFR (eGFR):

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1. What is the Bedside Schwartz Equation?

The Bedside Schwartz equation is a simplified formula used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in children. It provides a quick and practical method for assessing kidney function in pediatric patients using height and serum creatinine measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Bedside Schwartz equation:

\[ eGFR = 0.413 \times \frac{Height}{Scr} \]

Where:

\( eGFR \) — Estimated glomerular filtration rate (mL/min/1.73m²)
\( Height \) — Child's height in centimeters (cm)
\( Scr \) — Serum creatinine in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
\( 0.413 \) — Empirical constant derived from pediatric population studies

Explanation: The equation leverages the strong correlation between height and muscle mass in children, providing a more accurate GFR estimation than adult formulas.

3. Importance of eGFR Calculation in Children

Details: Accurate GFR estimation in children is essential for detecting congenital kidney abnormalities, monitoring chronic kidney disease progression, adjusting medication doses, and evaluating kidney function in various pediatric conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in centimeters and serum creatinine in mg/dL. Ensure measurements are recent and accurate. The formula is validated for children aged 1-18 years.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What age range is this formula appropriate for?
A: The Bedside Schwartz equation is validated for children aged 1-18 years. For infants under 1 year, different equations may be more appropriate.

Q2: Why is height used in pediatric GFR calculations?
A: Height correlates strongly with muscle mass and body surface area in children, making it a better predictor of creatinine production than weight or age alone.

Q3: What are normal eGFR values for children?
A: Normal eGFR in children varies by age but generally ranges from 90-140 mL/min/1.73m². Values should be interpreted in context with clinical findings.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The equation may be less accurate in children with extreme body compositions, malnutrition, edema, or rapidly changing kidney function.

Q5: When should this formula not be used?
A: Avoid using in neonates, children with amputations, severe obesity, or when serum creatinine is changing rapidly.