What To Do for the Patient with Minimally Elevated Creatinine Level?

Abstract

As this case demonstrates, even a slightly elevated serum creatinine level can indicate presence of clinically significant kidney disease. Therefore, calculated glomerular filtration rate, instead of absolute serum creatinine level, should be used to evaluate kidney function. If nephrotic-range proteinuria is present or if the patient has other indications of renal disease, such as red blood cells or casts in the urine sediment, referral to a nephrologist should be considered. Patients with any degree of chronic kidney disease should have their blood pressure, blood glucose level, and blood cholesterol level managed aggressively to help reduce or prevent the progression of kidney disease as well as to reduce risk of cardiovascular events.