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Serum Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle breakdown, in your serum. It helps assess kidney function.

Quick summary

["Your kidneys filter waste from blood; this test checks how well they’re doing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5090-6
Short code
C trach IgM Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
C trach IgM 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 It’s Done

Doctors order this test to evaluate kidney health, especially if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output. It may also be used during pregnancy, before certain surgeries, or to monitor chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

What to Expect

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s quick. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise.

How Results Are Interpreted

Higher-than-normal levels may suggest kidney problems, while lower levels could indicate muscle breakdown or dehydration. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps track kidney function in conditions like chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, or during treatment for conditions like chemotherapy or high blood pressure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Creatinine levels reflect how well your kidneys filter waste from blood. Elevated levels often signal impaired kidney function, while persistently low levels may warrant further investigation for muscle issues or other causes.

Short name

Creatinine Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes creatinine levels to change?
Creatinine levels can rise due to kidney disease, dehydration, or muscle disorders (e.g., severe muscle damage). They may drop if you’re dehydrated or have low muscle mass. Your doctor will consider these factors when reviewing results.
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
Dietary changes like high-protein meals can temporarily raise creatinine levels, but this effect is usually short-term. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments if kidney function is already compromised.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. If you have kidney disease or risk factors, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, it’s often checked only when symptoms or other tests suggest a need.
  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