6. Comparable serum creatinine levels in younger adults and older adults are not indicators of comparable kidney function.1 pointTrueFalseMaybe

Understanding the Statement

The question states that comparable serum creatinine levels in younger and older adults do not indicate comparable kidney function. To analyze this, we need to consider how serum creatinine levels relate to kidney function and how these relationships may vary by age.

Analyzing Serum Creatinine and Kidney Function

1. Serum Creatinine: It is a waste product in the blood that comes from muscle activity. The kidneys usually filter it out, making serum creatinine a common marker for kidney function.
2. Age Factor: Normal serum creatinine levels can be misleading because muscle mass decreases with age. Older adults may have lower muscle mass, resulting in lower serum creatinine levels even when kidney function declines.
3. GFR Correlation: The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a better indicator of kidney function than serum creatinine alone. In older adults, the GFR may decline even if serum creatinine levels remain within a normal range compared to younger adults.

Conclusion

Therefore, the statement is supported by the understanding that while serum creatinine is a marker for kidney health, age-related changes in muscle mass mean that comparable serum creatinine levels between younger and older adults do not reflect the actual kidney function equivalently.

Final Answer

True - Comparable serum creatinine levels in younger and older adults are not indicators of comparable kidney function.