Creatplrscnc
This test measures the level of creatinine in fluid collected from around the lungs to help determine the cause of pleural effusion.
{"Creatinine is a waste product normally filtered by the kidneys","This test helps distinguish between different types of pleural fluid","Elevated levels may indicate kidney-related issues affecting the pleural space"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54375-1
- Short code
- CR-PL
- Synonyms
- Creat Plr-sCnc
- Category
- kidney
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile collection container without additives, similar to routine fluid collection containers
- Units
- not specified
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Enzymatic or Jaffe colorimetric method (same as serum creatinine analysis)
- CPT
- 82520 (Creatinine; other body fluid)
- SNOMED
- 308273009 (Creatinine measurement in pleural fluid)
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL minimum, preferably 3-5 mL for comprehensive analysis
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Avoid freezing. Centrifuge if processing delayed.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The pleural fluid creatinine test measures the amount of creatinine in the fluid that has accumulated in the pleural space (the area between the lungs and chest wall). Creatinine is a waste product produced by normal muscle metabolism and is typically filtered out of the blood by healthy kidneys. When this test is performed on pleural fluid, it helps healthcare providers understand whether the fluid accumulation is related to kidney function or other causes.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider will perform a procedure called thoracentesis to collect the pleural fluid. This involves numbing the area and inserting a thin needle into the pleural space to withdraw fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Reference range
Not established (typically similar to serum; interpret vs simultaneous serum creatinine)not specified
No special preparation or fasting required; specimen obtained via thoracentesis
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test?
Is the procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do high levels mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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