1. What is the UK Children eGFR Equation?

The UK Children eGFR equation is a simplified formula specifically designed for pediatric patients to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using height and serum creatinine. This equation is particularly useful for assessing kidney function in children and adolescents.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the UK Children equation:

Where:

• \( Height \) — Patient's height in centimeters (cm)
• \( Scr \) — Serum creatinine in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
• 0.413 — Constant coefficient derived from pediatric population studies

Explanation: The equation leverages the relationship between height and creatinine to estimate kidney function, accounting for the fact that creatinine production correlates with muscle mass, which in turn relates to height in growing children.

3. Importance of eGFR Calculation in Children

Details: Accurate GFR estimation in children is essential for detecting early kidney dysfunction, monitoring chronic kidney disease progression, adjusting medication doses appropriately, and evaluating renal development and maturation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in centimeters and serum creatinine in mg/dL. Ensure both values are positive and measured accurately. For best results, use standardized measurement techniques and recent laboratory values.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What age range is this equation suitable for?
A: This equation is specifically validated for pediatric populations, typically from 1 year to 18 years of age.

Q2: Why is height used in this equation instead of age?
A: Height serves as a better proxy for body surface area and muscle mass in growing children, providing a more stable reference than age alone.

Q3: What are normal eGFR values for children?
A: Normal eGFR values in children vary by age and body size, but generally range from 90-140 mL/min/1.73m², with higher values typically seen in younger children.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This equation may be less accurate in children with extreme body compositions, malnutrition, muscle wasting diseases, or rapidly changing growth patterns.

Q5: Should this replace measured GFR in clinical practice?
A: While useful for screening and monitoring, measured GFR (using inulin, iohexol, or other markers) remains the gold standard for precise renal function assessment in complex cases.