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Creatinine Clearance (Calculated from Serum Creatinine and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

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

This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste products from your blood, using a calculation based on your serum creatinine level and estimated kidney function.

Quick summary

["A lower creatinine clearance may indicate kidney function issues that need attention."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44204-6
Short code
Deprecated RF Lung PC Bx needle guide
Synonyms
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Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rf
CPT
86430
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 assess kidney health, especially if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or if you’re taking medications that affect kidney function. It’s also used to monitor kidney disease progression or response to treatment.

How Is the Test Performed?

You’ll provide a blood sample (serum) for creatinine measurement, and your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) will be calculated using a formula (often based on age, sex, and race). No special preparation is needed beyond standard blood draw procedures.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are typically reported as a single value (e.g., mL/min) representing your kidney’s filtering ability. Lower values may signal reduced kidney function, while higher values suggest normal or improved function.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low creatinine clearance can result from chronic kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions affecting blood flow to the kidneys. High values may indicate dehydration or overhydration, but are less common.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing and managing kidney disease, guiding treatment plans for medications, and monitoring long-term health risks like heart disease or bone problems.

Short name

Creatinine Clearance

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a creatinine clearance test?
Your doctor may recommend it if you have symptoms of kidney issues (like fatigue or swelling), if you’re taking nephrotoxic medications, or if you have a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions linked to kidney problems.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Healthy adults may not need it unless screened for risk factors. People with kidney disease or related conditions may need it monthly, quarterly, or annually, as directed by your doctor.
Can diet or hydration affect my results?
Yes—high-protein diets or dehydration can temporarily raise creatinine levels, while proper hydration may lower them. Follow your doctor’s advice on timing your test relative to meals or fluid intake.
  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