IgA nephropathy resulting in low estimated glomerular filtration rate

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have IGA Nephropathy what does EGFR 12 mean

Dear Robert: IgA nephropathy is a form of glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the glomeruli of the kidney), where IgA antibodies are deposited in the glomerulus, resulting in widespread inflammation which may lead to chronic renal failure. Renal (kidney) function is defined in terms of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) with normal function greater than 60 mL/min/1.73 sq m. There are different levels of kidney damage ranging from Stage 1 (kidney damage with a normal GFR) to Stage 5 (GFR<15 or dialysis dependent). If your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is only 12 mL/min/1.73 sq m this represents extensive kidney damage, and you may require renal replacement therapy or dialysis. eGFR is only an estimate and a true measurement should be taken, which involves urine collection for 24 hours. This can be performed by your family doctor or nephrologist.