Cystatin C as a marker of GFR--history, indications, and future research.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize recent knowledge on the small molecular weight protein cystatin C (cys-C) and its use as a marker of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).


METHODS
A multinational expert meeting was held in April 2002 in Marburg, Germany. Contributors summarized their main findings.


CONCLUSIONS
Cys-C is at least equal if not superior to serum creatinine as a marker of GFR. The independence from height, gender, age, and muscle mass is advantageous. Select patient groups such as children, the elderly, and patients with reduced muscle mass benefit in particular.
Filler
Guido
G
Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. filler@cheo.on.ca
Bökenkamp
Arend
A
Hofmann
W
W
Le Bricon
Thierry
T
Martínez-Brú
Cecília
C
Grubb
Anders
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000368:Aged; D015415:Biomarkers; D002648:Child; D055316:Cystatin C; D015891:Cystatins; D005260:Female; D005919:Glomerular Filtration Rate; D006801:Humans; D016030:Kidney Transplantation; D011247:Pregnancy
D015415:Biomarkers; C525030:CST3 protein, human; D055316:Cystatin C; D015891:Cystatins