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Creatinine Clearance (Upper Arm)

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

This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste products from your blood using creatinine, a substance produced by muscle metabolism. It’s done with a blood sample drawn from an upper arm vein.

Quick summary

["Helps assess kidney function by estimating how efficiently your kidneys clear waste from your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36029-7
Short code
CT Upper arm-R
Synonyms
CT Upper arm-R
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to evaluate kidney health, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine output. It’s also used before surgeries, to monitor chronic kidney disease, or to check kidney function in people with diabetes or high blood pressure.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods for a short time if instructed by your healthcare provider. Drink plenty of water the day before to support kidney function.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will insert a needle into your upper arm vein to draw a small blood sample. This usually takes a few minutes and may cause a brief pinch or discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your kidneys are working properly. Abnormally low or high values may indicate kidney issues or other health problems that need further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Upper Arm Creatinine Clearance

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my test results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they’re ready to discuss the results.
What does a low creatinine clearance mean?
A low creatinine clearance may indicate that your kidneys are not filtering waste efficiently, which could be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or other health conditions. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and may recommend further testing or treatments.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
You can usually eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. However, follow any specific instructions they provide, such as avoiding certain medications or foods, to ensure accurate results.
  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