Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)

Why Your Kidneys Matter

Your kidneys filter waste products from your blood, including creatinine. This test helps doctors check if your kidneys are working properly by measuring how well they remove creatinine from your bloodstream. Healthy kidneys keep creatinine levels within a normal range, but if levels rise, it may signal kidney damage or disease.

What to Expect During the Test

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few seconds. No special preparation is needed unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High creatinine levels may be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions that cause muscle breakdown. Low levels might suggest dehydration, low muscle mass, or errors in testing. Your doctor will consider your overall health and other test results to interpret the results accurately.

When This Test Might Be Ordered

Doctors order this test to monitor kidney function, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine output. It’s also used before surgeries, during pregnancy, or if you have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.