Plasma Creatinine (from Dipyridamole-Induced Stress Test)
This test measures how your kidneys filter creatinine—a waste product from muscle metabolism—after you’ve taken a medication called dipyridamole to temporarily stress your heart’s blood flow. It helps assess blood flow to your heart muscle, often used before procedures like coronary angiography.
["This test helps doctors check if blood flows well to your heart during stress, aiding decisions about heart procedures."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73411-1
- Short code
- Dipyridamole ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Dipyridamole ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you’re preparing for a coronary angiography or other heart procedure. It helps evaluate how well blood circulates to your heart muscle under stress, which can reveal blockages or other issues that might need treatment. This test is usually done alongside an echocardiogram or other imaging to provide a full picture of your heart’s health.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely receive a dose of dipyridamole, a medication that widens blood vessels to mimic stress. You may feel mild chest pressure, flushing, or shortness of breath, but these are normal. Avoid caffeine or nicotine 24 hours before the test. Bring your medications with you, as some may need adjustments.
During the Test
You’ll lie down while a technician monitors your heart’s electrical activity and blood flow. A special dye may be injected to visualize blood flow in your heart. The test usually takes about 30–60 minutes, and you’ll be connected to monitors for safety.
After the Test
You can resume normal activities immediately, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a few hours. Check with your doctor if you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or severe dizziness. Your doctor will review the results to guide next steps, such as planning a procedure or monitoring your heart health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps identify blood flow restrictions in your heart muscle, which can indicate coronary artery disease or other conditions. Lower-than-expected creatinine clearance after stress may suggest poor blood flow, prompting further evaluation. Doctors use these results to decide if you’re a good candidate for procedures like angioplasty or stent placement.
Short name
Creatinine Stress Test
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wait for results?
Will I feel any pain during the test?
Can I eat or drink before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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