Creatinine vs. Cystatin C: A Practical Guide to Renal Biomarkers and eGFR Equations
This review compares creatinine and cystatin C as renal biomarkers for estimating glomerular filtration rate, covering their analytical methods, age-dependent reference intervals, and roles in the new European Kidney Function Consortium equation. The findings help laboratories choose the right biomarker and equation for accurate kidney function staging.
The original study
Exploring Renal Function Assessment: Creatinine, Cystatin C, and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Focused on the European Kidney Function Consortium Equation.
- Authors
- Pottel H, Delanaye P, Cavalier E
- Journal
- Annals of laboratory medicine
- Type
- Journal Article, Review
- PMID
- 37909162
Original abstract
Serum creatinine and serum cystatin C are the most widely used renal biomarkers for calculating the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which is used to estimate the severity of kidney damage. In this review, we present the basic characteristics of these biomarkers, their advantages and disadvantages, some basic history, and current laboratory measurement practices with state-of-the-art methodology. Their clinical utility is described in terms of normal reference intervals, graphically presented with age-dependent reference intervals, and their use in eGFR equations.