Serum or plasma concentration of creatinine (measured by standard enzymatic method)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood or plasma. It helps assess kidney function by checking how well your kidneys filter blood.
["A creatinine test helps evaluate kidney health and diagnose potential kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13219-1
- Short code
- C trach G+F+K Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- C trach G+F+K Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order a creatinine test to monitor kidney function, especially if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output. It’s also used before certain procedures, during pregnancy, or if you have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure that can affect kidney health.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test, but your provider will let you know. Avoid strenuous exercise or certain medications that could affect results. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, usually in a clinic or lab. You may feel a small pinch, but it’s quick and doesn’t require special preparation beyond what your provider directs.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal levels may suggest kidney problems, while lower levels could indicate muscle breakdown or other conditions. Your results will be compared to your baseline or clinical picture, not just a single number.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Creatinine Level
Frequently asked questions
Your creatinine level is part of a broader kidney function assessment, often combined with other tests like blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Elevated levels may signal reduced kidney function, which could require lifestyle changes, medications, or further testing.
This test is typically done every few months if you have chronic kidney disease to track progress. If you’re healthy, it may be part of a routine checkup or only when symptoms appear.
No, creatinine levels alone don’t diagnose kidney disease. They’re used alongside other tests, like imaging or urine tests, to get a full picture of kidney health.
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