The Schwartz Formula

The Schwartz Formula is a mathematical way to estimate a child's kidney function, specifically how well their kidneys are filtering blood. It uses the child's serum creatinine level—a waste product in the blood—and factors in age, height, or weight to provide an estimate called the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Since direct measurement is complex, this formula helps doctors assess kidney health efficiently, detect issues early, and plan appropriate treatment. It’s a useful tool because it combines simple blood tests with individual physical characteristics to give a clear picture of kidney performance.