How do the Cockcroft and Gault and MDRD Study equations differ?
The Cockcroft and Gault equation estimates creatinine clearance and is not adjusted for body surface area.2 The MDRD Study equation estimates GFR adjusted for body surface area. GFR estimates from the MDRD Study equation can therefore be applied to determine level of kidney function, regardless of a patient’s size. In contrast, estimates based on the Cockcroft and Gault equation can be used for drug dosage recommendations, whereas GFR estimates based on the MDRD Study should be “unadjusted” for body surface area (see questions 37-38). Many studies have compared the performance of the two equations to measured GFR. In some of these studies, the MDRD Study equation was more accurate than the Cockcroft and Gault equation. Other studies demonstrated similar performance. The Cockcroft and Gault equation appears to be less accurate than the MDRD Study equation, specifically in older and obese people.
Related Questions
- How does this study differ from the statewide Proposition 36 Evaluation Study and other research projects currently underway or being proposed?
- How does this study differ from 2005’s Similar Students, Different Results: Why Do Some Schools Do Better?
- How do the Cockcroft and Gault and MDRD Study equations differ?
