1. What is the MDRD Equation?

The MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) equation estimates glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from serum creatinine, age, sex, and race. It was developed to provide a more accurate assessment of kidney function than the Cockcroft-Gault formula.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MDRD equation:

Where:

• \( Scr \) — Serum creatinine (mg/dL)
• \( Age \) — Age in years
• 0.742 — Female multiplier
• 1.212 — Black race multiplier

Explanation: The equation uses serum creatinine, age, gender, and race factors to estimate glomerular filtration rate, providing a standardized assessment of kidney function.

3. Importance of eGFR Calculation

Details: Accurate GFR estimation is essential for diagnosing chronic kidney disease, monitoring disease progression, and adjusting medication dosages based on renal function.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum creatinine in mg/dL, age in years, select gender and race. All values must be valid (creatinine > 0, age between 1-120 years).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between MDRD and CKD-EPI?
A: CKD-EPI is generally more accurate at higher GFR levels (>60 mL/min/1.73m²) and is now preferred for clinical use, though MDRD remains widely used.

Q2: What are the limitations of the MDRD equation?
A: Less accurate in elderly patients, extremes of body size, pregnant women, and populations with normal or near-normal kidney function.

Q3: When was the MDRD equation developed?
A: The MDRD equation was developed in 1999 and has been widely used for kidney function assessment.

Q4: Is the MDRD equation standardized?
A: Yes, the MDRD equation uses standardized serum creatinine measurements for consistent results across different laboratories.

Q5: Can MDRD be used for all patient populations?
A: While useful for most adults, it may be less accurate in children, pregnant women, and patients with rapidly changing kidney function.