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Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

["Creatinine levels help check kidney function and detect early kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111342-2
Short code
EBV VCA IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
EBV VCA IgG Msmt Ser
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate kidney health, monitor kidney disease progression, or check for conditions like dehydration, heart failure, or muscle disorders. It’s often used alongside other tests to assess overall kidney function.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

High levels may indicate poor kidney function, where waste products build up in your blood. Low levels can sometimes suggest dehydration, overhydration, or conditions affecting muscle breakdown.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure creatinine concentration using a specialized method, such as enzymatic or spectrophotometric techniques.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Factors like dehydration, muscle damage, heart or liver disease, or certain medications can affect creatinine levels. Chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure are also linked to abnormal results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Creatinine levels are a key marker for kidney function, but they’re part of a broader assessment. Your doctor may use them alongside other tests, like blood urea nitrogen (BUN), to diagnose and monitor kidney issues accurately.

Short name

Creatinine Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a creatinine test tell me about my kidneys?
It provides a general idea of how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood, but it’s not the only test. High levels often signal kidney problems, while low levels may need further investigation to rule out other causes like fluid imbalance or muscle conditions.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health, symptoms, and medical history. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or other conditions affecting kidney function.
Can diet or exercise affect my creatinine levels?
Yes, eating foods high in protein or losing a lot of muscle mass can temporarily raise creatinine levels. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can help keep levels stable, but your doctor should interpret results in the context of your overall health.
  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