Assessment of the glomerular filtration rate in children: methodological aspects

Renal function tests are important to evaluate the progression of kidney disease and to monitor renal function during drug treatment. For the assessment of renal function the mechanisms responsible for the formation of urine, namely filtration, reabsorption and secretion, must be taken into consideration. The excretion of endogenous and exogenous substances is mainly regulated by glomerular filtration. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered the most important parameter to evaluate renal function and it is affected by most kidney diseases. For children’s convenience it is important that the determination of GFR can be performed in a short time window with minimal intervention. On the other hand it is important that the test shows a high accuracy. In general, tests that are most accurate are also those that are most elaborate and costly. The aim of this thesis was to develop a simple, practical, convenient and accurate method to determine the glomerular filtration rate adapted to the specific requirements of children.