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Chronic Kidney Disease
 More than 25 million Americans suffer from Chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is when one suffers loss of kidney function. This happens gradually over time, usually over months to years. Chronic kidney disease is divided into five stages of increasing severity with Stage 1 representing the mildest form of kidney damage. Moderate decreases in eGFR (30 to 59) represent stage 3 chronic kidney disease. At this stage of CKD, hormonal and mineral imbalances can lead to anemia, acidosis, and weak bones. Stage 5 is the most advanced stage of kidney damage and by this time most patients have been prepared for dialysis or are on the kidney transplant list. Your kidney doctor (nephrologist) can provide guidance and treatment to help preserve kidney function and prevent eventual need for dialysis.
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Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease |
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Stage |
Description |
eGFR*
mL/min/1.73m2 |
1 |
Slight kidney damage with normal or increased filtration |
More than 90 |
2 |
Slight kidney damage with mild decrease in kidney function |
60-89 |
3 |
Moderate decrease in kidney function |
30-59 |
4 |
Severe decrease in kidney function |
15-29 |
5 |
Kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation |
Less than 15 |
*eGFR is estimated glomerular filtration rate, a measurement of the kidney's function.
To read more about kidney disease, visit:
National Kidney Foundation: CKD Facts
WebMD: CKD Treatment Overview
View Pictures of the Kidney
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