The GFR test is also known as the Glomerular Filtration Test. The GFR test is one of a series of different tests that can be used together or individually to assess the functioning of the kidneys. The kidneys are a pair of organs that are designed to clean the blood of impurities. These impurities may be in the form of wastes that have been generated during the various body processes that take place throughout the day. Blood passes through the kidneys where it will be filtered. The waste materials generated in this process are sent to the urinary bladder through the ureter, a tube that attaches each kidney to the urinary bladder.
The GFR test is used to determine one specific feature of the functioning of the kidneys, which is the rate at which each glomeruli of the kidney filters blood. Naturally, there is a normal rate at which the kidneys are supposed to filter blood. This is known as the GFR test range. Under normal circumstances, the GFR test range is between 90 and 120 milliliters per minute. This rate is applicable to individuals who are resting. The reason why rest makes a difference is that it affects the rate of heart beat. If the heart is beating fast, the flow of blood will be faster and this will affect the GFR test results.
The GFR test is performed in the same way as any blood sampling test would be performed. The test is performed using a needle which is used to collect a sample of blood from the patient’s body. This sample of blood is then sent to the laboratory where the GFR test is conducted. In many cases, the GFR test is referred to as the eGFR test with the ‘e’ standing for estimated. This is because the test is used to determine the concentration of substances in the blood that can help the technician make an estimate of the actual GFR. What this means is that the test does not actually scan the kidneys directly, it scans the blood to check how well it is being cleaned.
From the patient point of view, the GFR test is an extremely short duration test with minimal inconvenience caused. If there are some serious symptoms, the patient may be in a hospital at the time of this test. However, most patients are hospitalized, if needed, only after the GFR test has been completed. All preparations for the test are best discussed with the doctors.