A person with cirrhosis of the liver has lower than normal levels of plasma proteins and a higher than normal GFR. Explain why a decrease in plasma protein concentration would cause an increase in GFR.

What will be an ideal response?


The primary driving force for GFR is blood pressure, opposed by fluid pressure in Bowman's capsule and osmotic pressure due to plasma proteins. If a person has fewer plasma proteins due to liver disease, the plasma will have a lower osmotic pressure. With less osmotic pressure opposing the GFR, GFR will increase.

Anatomy & Physiology

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