Tjin a Ton JJS, Zwart S. Patients reduced kidney function easy to identify in general practice. Huisarts Wet 2006;49(9):443-7.
Introduction Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition with elevated risks of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. General Practitioners commonly under-diagnose CKD, when they could play an important role in the prevention and treatment of the disease. Furthermore, being aware of reduced kidney function is particularly relevant to the prescribing of drugs in general practice.
Methods We used serum creatinine records and the simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disesase (MDRD) equation to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in all patients with diabetes and/or hypertension in a GP practice in Oudewater (NL).
Results In 369 of the 439 patients kidney function could be calculated. Of the patients with diabetes and/or hypertension, 20.1% had moderately to severely reduced GFR.
Discussion Patients with decreased kidney function can easily be identified in general practice. National studies are needed to investigate the prevalence of CKD in primary care.