What does GFR stand for in the context of kidney function?

GFR stands for Glomerular Filtration Rate, which is a key indicator of kidney function. It measures how much blood is filtered by the glomeruli—tiny structures in the kidneys—per minute. This rate is crucial for assessing the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood, maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, and regulate blood pressure.

The GFR is typically estimated using formulas that incorporate serum creatinine levels, age, gender, and race, providing an estimate of kidney function. Clinically, a normal GFR is essential for overall health, and a decrease in GFR can indicate kidney disease or other health issues.

Understanding GFR helps in diagnosing and monitoring conditions affecting kidney health, making it an important concept in anatomy and physiology.