Skip to content

Serum Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your serum. It helps assess kidney function by evaluating how well your kidneys filter blood.

Quick summary

["A key test for kidney health—high levels may signal impaired filtering."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5089-8
Short code
C trach IgG Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
C trach IgG 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
CPT
82784
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 Matters

Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle breakdown and is naturally filtered by your kidneys. If your kidneys aren’t working well, creatinine builds up in your blood. This test helps doctors check how efficiently your kidneys are doing their job.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll have a small blood sample drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your doctor’s instructions.

How Results Are Interpreted

Results are compared to a general reference range, though individual ranges can vary. High levels may indicate kidney problems, while very low levels could suggest muscle disorders or other conditions.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated creatinine levels may be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys. Low levels might be linked to muscle wasting, liver disease, or certain medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test periodically if you have kidney-related symptoms, a history of kidney issues, or conditions that affect kidney function (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure). Regular monitoring helps track kidney health over time.
What does it mean if my results are outside the normal range?
If your results are higher than expected, your doctor may investigate further to rule out kidney problems or other conditions. If lower, they could check for muscle loss or other underlying issues. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
Can diet or lifestyle affect this test?
Yes, high-protein diets or intense exercise can temporarily raise creatinine levels. Avoiding excessive protein and staying hydrated may help stabilize results. Always follow your doctor’s guidance for test timing and preparation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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