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Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Standard Method)

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

["A creatinine test helps check kidney function by evaluating how well your kidneys remove waste from your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5160-7
Short code
EBV VCA IgM Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
EBV VCA IgM Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 efficiently your kidneys are working. High levels may suggest kidney problems, while low levels could indicate dehydration or muscle loss. 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 depends on your doctor’s instructions. Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm, and you may feel a slight pinch. No special preparation is needed for urine tests if ordered.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High creatinine levels may be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions that increase muscle breakdown. Low levels could result from dehydration, low muscle mass, or certain medications. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

When This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test to check for kidney problems, monitor chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, or evaluate symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing and managing kidney disease, detecting early signs of impaired kidney function, and guiding treatment plans. It helps doctors monitor how well kidneys are filtering blood over time.

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does a creatinine test measure?
It measures the concentration of creatinine, a waste product produced by muscles and filtered by the kidneys. This helps assess kidney function and overall health.
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
Dietary protein intake can influence creatinine levels, but the test itself does not measure protein directly. High protein intake may temporarily raise levels, but this is not the same as kidney damage.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, medical history, and symptoms. Regular monitoring may be recommended for people with kidney disease or related conditions.
  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