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Creatinine Clearance (from 24-hour urine collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood, using a 24-hour urine sample.

Quick summary

["Helps assess kidney function and overall kidney health over a full day’s urine output."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92796-2
Short code
C kefyr DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
C kefyr DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
CPT
82553
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Creatinine Clearance?

Creatinine clearance is a measure of how effectively your kidneys remove creatinine—a waste product from muscle metabolism—from your blood. Unlike simple blood tests, this test accounts for your entire urine output over 24 hours, giving a more comprehensive picture of kidney function.

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of kidney problems (like fatigue, swelling, or frequent urination), if you have a history of kidney disease, or if you’re taking medications that can affect kidney function. It’s also used to monitor kidney health in people with diabetes or high blood pressure.

How Is It Performed?

You’ll collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container. Your doctor will provide instructions to ensure accuracy. Blood may also be drawn to measure creatinine levels in your bloodstream for comparison.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are typically reported as a clearance rate (e.g., mL/min), which compares your urine output to your blood creatinine levels. Lower than expected values may indicate kidney dysfunction, while higher values could suggest overhydration or other conditions.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

None

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
This test is usually done once or twice a year if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. If you’re healthy, it may only be needed if you have risk factors (like family history) or if you’re taking medications that affect kidneys.
What if my results are abnormal?
If your creatinine clearance is low, your doctor may recommend further tests (like blood tests or imaging) to check for kidney damage. They may also adjust medications or treatments to protect your kidneys.
Can I eat or drink normally before this test?
Yes, you can eat and drink as usual, but you must collect *all* urine for the full 24 hours. If you forget, your results may be inaccurate.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy