What does a decreased GFR typically correlate with in a clinical context?

A decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an important indicator of kidney function. In a clinical context, it typically correlates with an increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level. When kidney function declines, the kidneys become less efficient at filtering waste products from the blood, which leads to the accumulation of these substances, including urea, in the bloodstream. As a result, higher levels of BUN are observed.

In contrast, other options do not align with this relationship. For example, lower protein intake is not directly related to GFR; it may actually lead to decreased BUN levels rather than an increase. Improved kidney function would logically result in a higher GFR and lower BUN levels, making this option inconsistent with a decreased GFR. Lastly, decreased glucose levels do not have a direct correlation with GFR and are typically indicative of different metabolic conditions. Therefore, the connection between decreased GFR and increased BUN is crucial in assessing renal function and understanding the implications of renal impairment.