Combined application of eGFR and albuminuria for the precise diagnosis of stage 2 and 3a CKD in the elderly

Background Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is the sole diagnostic criterion for stage 3a chronic kidney disease (CKD). Because eGFR decreases with age, its prognostic utility in the elderly is controversial. Albuminuria is an important prognostic factor. To confirm that eGFR use may lead to the overdiagnosis of CKD and to examine the utility of eGFR combined with albuminuria for diagnosing stage 3a CKD in the elderly.