Skip to content

Serum or plasma mass concentration of creatinine

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

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

Quick summary

["Kidney function and waste removal are monitored with this test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73562-1
Short code
EDDP Mec Cfm-mCnt
Synonyms
EDDP Mec Cfm-mCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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 check for kidney problems, monitor kidney disease, evaluate dehydration, or assess overall health before certain procedures. It can also help determine how well medications are being processed by your kidneys.

What Does a Result Mean?

Higher than expected levels may suggest kidney issues, poor kidney function, or conditions like dehydration, muscle disorders, or heart failure. Lower levels might indicate overhydration or certain liver or muscle conditions.

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 is analyzed to measure creatinine levels. Urine tests can also be done to check creatinine levels, especially in kidney function studies.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Changes in creatinine levels can be influenced by factors like dehydration or fluid overload, muscle mass, certain medications, or underlying health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine Level

Frequently asked questions

What might cause my creatinine level to be higher than expected?
Higher creatinine levels can result from reduced kidney function, dehydration, muscle breakdown, or conditions that affect blood flow to the kidneys. Your doctor may also consider medications, diet, or other health conditions.
Can diet or exercise affect my creatinine levels?
Yes, diet high in protein can temporarily raise creatinine levels, as muscle breakdown increases. Exercise can also impact muscle metabolism, but it usually doesn’t significantly alter creatinine levels unless you’re engaging in intense, prolonged physical activity.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status, medical history, and any ongoing conditions. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or other health issues affecting kidney function.
  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