The Importance of Protein Intake in Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease
What is the significance of a GFR of 20 ml/min/1.73 m2 in relation to Stage 4 CKD?
a) Represents advanced kidney damage
b) Indicates normal kidney function
c) Points to early stage kidney disease
d) None of the above
Answer:
a) Represents advanced kidney damage
Yes, a GFR of 20 ml/min/1.73 m2 indicates Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease. The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is the volume of plasma that the kidneys are able to filter per minute. Normal GFR ranges from 90 to 140 mL/min for men and 80 to 125 mL/min for women. When GFR drops as low as 20 ml/min/1.73 m2, this signifies advanced kidney damage or Stage 4 CKD. At this stage, kidney function has decreased to just 15-30% of normal capacity.
Explanation:The direct answer is: a) Represents advanced kidney damage. A GFR of 20 ml/min/1.73 m2 does indeed represent Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), and it indicates a significant decline in kidney function.
The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood, maintaining the body's electrolyte balance, and producing hormones. When kidney function is severely impaired as in Stage 4 CKD, it can lead to dangerous levels of waste buildup in the body, resulting in various complications such as high blood pressure, anemia, bone disease, and cardiovascular issues.
Therefore, it is vital for individuals with Stage 4 CKD to work closely with healthcare providers to manage their condition and slow down further kidney damage through lifestyle modifications and treatment plans.