MDRD eGFR

Calculates estimated GFR using the simplified 4-variable MDRD study equation with IDMS-traceable creatinine (re-expressed 2006 version). Historical standard before CKD-EPI.

mg/dL
IDMS-traceable serum creatinine in mg/dL.
years
Age in years.
Female factor = 0.742.
If checked, multiply by 1.212. NOTE: CKD-EPI 2021 replaced race-based adjustments. This is for historical comparison only.

References

  1. Kidney function estimation equations: a narrative review — Journal of Laboratory and Precision Medicine/PMC (2024)
  2. Using standardized serum creatinine values in the MDRD study equation — Annals of Internal Medicine (2006)

Note: The MDRD 6-variable equation: GFR = 170 * SCr^(-0.999) * Age^(-0.176) * (0.762 if F) * (1.180 if Black) * BUN^(-0.170) * Albumin^(+0.318). Most labs now report CKD-EPI 2021 instead.

Warnings & Limitations

  • MDRD tends to underestimate GFR, especially at values >60 mL/min/1.73 m2.
  • Race-based adjustment removed in modern practice - CKD-EPI 2021 is preferred.
  • Original MDRD (1999) used 6 variables including BUN and albumin; simplified 4-variable version (2000) is most commonly used.
  • Not validated for healthy individuals, pregnancy, acute kidney injury, or transplant recipients.