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 monitor kidney health.
["Cystatin C helps evaluate kidney function and may be used alongside other tests for better accuracy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92924-0
- Short code
- CT Guided Abd Asp
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Abd Asp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check how well your kidneys are working, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine output. It can also be used to monitor kidney disease progression or guide treatment decisions, such as for certain medications or dialysis planning.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure cystatin C levels. No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid strenuous activity before the test.
What Are Common Results?
Results are typically reported as a concentration in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL). Your actual results will be compared to a reference range provided by your healthcare provider.
How Is This Test Different from Other Kidney Tests?
Unlike traditional kidney function tests like blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or creatinine, cystatin C is not filtered by the kidneys and is less affected by muscle mass or dehydration. It provides a more precise measure of kidney function, especially in people with mild to moderate kidney disease.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cystatin C is a reliable marker for kidney function because it is produced by all cells in the body and is not influenced by factors like muscle mass or diet. High levels may indicate kidney damage or disease, while low levels might suggest conditions like overhydration or certain genetic disorders. It is often used in conjunction with other tests to better assess kidney health, particularly in people with diabetes, hypertension, or chronic kidney disease.
Short name
Cystatin C Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is there any risk or discomfort associated with this test?
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