Current Status of Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Reporting in Korea

Abstract

Background: We aimed to investigate the current status of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) reporting in clinical laboratories for the first time in Korea. Methods: The eGFR proficiency testing data obtained by the Korean Association of External Quality Assessment Service (KEQAS) from 2017 to 2018 as a pilot project were used. We investigated the proportion of clinical laboratories reporting eGFR who were participants in the KEQAS general chemistry proficiency testing program. The types of equations for calculating the eGFR in adults and children were assessed. We evaluated whether each participant laboratory calculated the eGFR correctly. Results: About 18% and 12% of laboratories were reporting the eGFR with serum creatinine concentrations for adults and children, respectively. The most common equation for calculating the eGFR in adults was the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) 4 variable (isotope dilution mass spectrometry [IDMS]-traceable), followed by the MDRD 4 variable (non-IDMS-traceable) and Chronic Kidney Disease-Epidemiology Collaboration equation. In children, 9% used the original Schwartz, 4% used the updated Schwartz, and the other laboratories used the same equation as adults. Accurate eGFR was calculated in 76.0%–96.2% of adults and 65.3%–75.0% of children. Conclusions: Continuous education is needed to report eGFR in clinical laboratories that measure serum creatinine levels. Clinical laboratories need to report the eGFR in accordance with internationally recommended guidelines.