The utility of serum neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin level on predicting autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease progression

Introduction We focused on neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) progression. Methods ADPKD patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 were included. Serum NGAL level and NGAL to eGFR ratio (NGR), height‐adjusted total kidney volume (hTKV) were assessed initially. Patients were followed‐up for 5 years. Results Sixty one patients were enrolled and initial eGFR was 73.6 (48.9–101.5) ml/min/1.73m 2 . EGFR declined by 3.7 mL/min/1.73m 2 per year. Thirty four patients (55.7%) exhibited rapid progression. Rapid progression group had lower serum NGAL levels ( p < 0.001) and higher hTKV ( p < 0.001). Lower serum NGAL level was a risk factor for rapid progression ( p < 0.001). NGR was not associated with rapid progression. Serum NGAL level was predictive in for rapid progression ROC analysis (cut‐off <10.62 ng/mL). Conclusion Relatively lower serum NGAL levels can predict worse outcomes in ADPKD and can provide risk stratification in patients with ADPKD.