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Serum 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 serum. It helps assess kidney function.

Quick summary

["Kidney health depends on this test—high levels may signal impaired filtering."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22279-4
Short code
ECV7 Ab Titr Ser
Synonyms
ECV7 Ab Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Your Kidneys Matter

Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle breakdown, and healthy kidneys filter it from your blood. If your kidneys aren’t working well, creatinine builds up, which can affect other organs over time.

What the Test Shows

Elevated creatinine levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while lower levels could suggest dehydration or muscle loss. Your doctor will use this test alongside other factors to diagnose kidney issues.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn, and lab technicians use a method like enzymatic analysis to measure creatinine concentration. Results are compared to standard ranges to assess kidney performance.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors order creatinine tests to monitor kidney disease, check for dehydration, evaluate chronic conditions (like diabetes or high blood pressure), or screen for kidney problems before surgeries.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Why might I need this test?
You may need this test if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or frequent urination, or if your doctor suspects kidney issues. It’s also part of routine check-ups for people with risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure.
What do my results mean?
Results alone don’t diagnose kidney disease—they’re part of a bigger picture. Your doctor will review your overall health, symptoms, and other test results to determine if kidney function needs attention.
Can I affect my test results?
Yes! Dehydration can lower creatinine, while muscle mass or certain medications may influence levels. Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy meals 24 hours before testing for consistency.
  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