When is a patient classified in Stage 5 CKD?

A patient is classified in Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) when they require maintenance dialysis for survival. This stage is characterized by end-stage renal failure, where the kidneys have lost nearly all their ability to function effectively. As a result, toxins and fluids build up in the body to a dangerous level, necessitating renal replacement therapy, such as dialysis, to maintain life.

The classification of CKD stages is based primarily on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Stage 5 indicates a severely decreased GFR, typically defined as being below 15 mL/min/1.73 m², indicating that the kidneys are functioning at a minimal level. Patients in this stage often show symptoms that require immediate intervention, thus leading to the need for dialysis or possible kidney transplantation.

In contrast, the other options reflect various stages or conditions that do not align with Stage 5 CKD. For instance, having a GFR of 90 mL/min/1.73 m² indicates Stage 1 CKD, while a GFR between 60-89 mL/min/1.73 m² corresponds to Stage 2. "Moderately decreased GFR" typically falls within Stages 2 to 4,