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Serum Creatinine (Creatinine Level)

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

This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.

Quick summary

["Kidney function and waste removal depend on this test result."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7857-6
Short code
DENV3 Ab Ser Ql IA
Synonyms
DENV3 Ab Ser Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 kidney function, monitor chronic kidney disease, evaluate dehydration, or assess conditions like muscle disorders or heart disease. It’s often used alongside other tests, like blood urea nitrogen (BUN), to get a full picture of kidney health.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a metabolic panel. Drink plenty of water the day before to ensure accurate results. Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy meals before testing.

How the Test Is Done

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, but your actual values will depend on your age, sex, and overall health. High levels may signal kidney problems, while low levels could indicate muscle breakdown or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High Creatinine Level Indicate?
Elevated creatinine levels often mean your kidneys aren’t filtering blood as well as they should. This can happen with kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys. It’s important to discuss symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine with your doctor.
What Does a Low Creatinine Level Indicate?
Low levels might suggest muscle loss, severe dehydration, or certain metabolic disorders. However, they can also occur in healthy individuals with normal kidney function. Your doctor will consider other factors to determine the cause.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will decide how often to check your creatinine levels based on your health needs. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or other conditions affecting kidney function.
  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