Serum Creatinine (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood serum. It helps assess kidney function.
["A creatinine test helps doctors check how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30339-6
- Short code
- EBV VCA IgG Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- EBV VCA IgG Ser Ql
- 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 This Test Matters
Creatinine levels can indicate how effectively your kidneys are working. High levels may suggest kidney damage or disease, while low levels might raise concerns about muscle disorders or dehydration. This test is often used alongside other kidney function tests to diagnose and monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some (like certain pain relievers) can affect results. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy meals 24 hours before the test to ensure accurate readings.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or other units. While reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal levels may signal kidney issues, while very low levels could indicate muscle problems or fluid overload. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated creatinine levels often signal impaired kidney function, which can be an early sign of chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, or other conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Low levels may warrant further investigation for conditions like muscle atrophy or dehydration. Regular monitoring is crucial for patients with kidney-related conditions or risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Short name
Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
What causes creatinine levels to be high?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise affect creatinine levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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