Cystatin C Serum Concentration (Quantitative)
This test measures the level of cystatin C, a protein produced by all cells in the body. It helps assess kidney function and can be used to monitor kidney health.
["Cystatin C is a simple blood test that helps track kidney function and may be used alongside other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60651-7
- Short code
- MANDARC
- Synonyms
- Cd-Xi-Pm Angle Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Not applicable (imaging study; no specimen container required)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 27
- Ref high
- 37
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 5–99 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- CPT
- 70260
- SNOMED
- 169068008
- Specimen volume
- Not applicable (radiographic imaging study, not a fluid specimen)
- Stability
- Not applicable (radiographic images should be stored per institutional PACS retention policy; minimum 5-7 years per healthcare regulations)
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a cystatin C test to evaluate kidney function, especially in people with risk factors for kidney disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney problems. It can also be used to monitor kidney function in people already diagnosed with kidney disease.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
Elevated cystatin C levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while lower levels might suggest overhydration or other conditions. However, results alone don’t diagnose kidney disease; they’re often used alongside other tests.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis to measure cystatin C concentration.
What Are Common Uses?
Cystatin C is frequently used in combination with creatinine to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a measure of kidney function. It’s also useful in monitoring kidney health in chronic conditions.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by age, sex, and ethnicity. Typical adult norm values for mandibular plane angle (SN-MP or FMA) range from 27° to 37°. Pediatric values differ and should be compared to age-appropriate cephalometric standards.N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should remove all metallic objects (jewelry, hair accessories, eyeglasses, dentures, and removable orthodontic appliances) prior to radiograph exposure to prevent artifact interference.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cystatin C
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is there any preparation needed besides fasting?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy