Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2026 Jun;138(Suppl 6):611-622. doi: 10.1007/s00508-026-02749-1. Epub 2026 Jun 12.
ABSTRACT
This consensus paper, jointly developed by the Austrian Society of Laboratory Medicine and Clinical Chemistry (ÖGLMKC), the Austrian Society for Quality Assurance and Standardization of Medicinal Diagnostics (ÖQUASTA), and the Austrian Society of Nephrology (ÖGN), outlines standardized approaches to the laboratory diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) within the framework of cardiovascular-renal-metabolic health. CKD represents a major public health burden, with low awareness among affected individuals and significant implications for morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.The document emphasizes the central role of two key laboratory parameters-the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR)-for early detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of CKD. It highlights current gaps in implementation, particularly the underuse of uACR in routine screening as well as challenges arising from methodological heterogeneity and lack of standardization.The consensus provides detailed recommendations for analytical and preanalytical standardization, uniform calculation methods recommending the EKFC equation to evaluate eGFR, structured reporting, and the integration of risk prediction tools such as the kidney failure risk equation (KFRE). It further addresses quality assurance measures, including external proficiency testing, and stresses the importance of harmonized reporting formats to improve clinical interpretation.Finally, the paper calls for systematic integration of CKD screening into primary care, improved reimbursement structures, and enhanced digital integration of laboratory data. The overarching goal is to improve early detection, ensure comparability of results, and strengthen patient care across healthcare settings.
PMID:42283814 | DOI:10.1007/s00508-026-02749-1