What four parameters are required for calculating eGFR using the MDRD formula?

The correct answer involves serum creatinine, age, gender, and race, which are crucial for accurately estimating the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula. This formula is designed to assess kidney function and is based on these parameters because they reflect the physiological factors that influence kidney performance.

Serum creatinine provides a direct measure of kidney function since it is a waste product filtered by the kidneys. Age is important because kidney function tends to decline with age, so older individuals may have lower eGFR values. Gender is relevant as physiological differences between males and females affect muscle mass, which in turn influences serum creatinine levels. Lastly, the consideration of race is included in the formula because certain populations, such as African Americans, often have higher muscle mass and different baseline serum creatinine levels, which can affect the estimation of kidney function.

This four-parameter combination allows for a more accurate and relevant assessment of renal function in diverse populations, making it a critical aspect of clinical evaluations in nephrology.