Creatinine Clearance (from Serum Creatinine and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

What Is Creatinine Clearance Used For?

Creatinine clearance helps doctors evaluate kidney health by estimating how well your kidneys filter waste products like creatinine. It’s often used to diagnose or monitor kidney disease, track progression, or guide treatment decisions for conditions affecting kidney function.

How Is Creatinine Clearance Calculated?

Your creatinine clearance is calculated using a formula that combines your serum creatinine level (a blood test) with an estimate of your glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which reflects kidney function. This calculation may also consider factors like age, sex, and body size.

What Does a Creatinine Clearance Test Involve?

You’ll have a simple blood draw to measure your serum creatinine level. Additional information (like height, weight, and sometimes urine samples) may be needed to estimate your GFR accurately. This test is typically done in a lab setting.

When Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order a creatinine clearance test if you have symptoms of kidney problems (like fatigue, swelling, or frequent urination), if you have a chronic condition affecting kidneys (like diabetes or high blood pressure), or if you’re undergoing treatment that could impact kidney function.