Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Qualitative or Quantitative)
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.
["Kidney function check via creatinine levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108150-4
- Short code
- ENA PCNA Ab Ser IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- ENA PCNA Ab Ser IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 are a key indicator of kidney function. Your kidneys normally filter waste products, including creatinine, from your blood. If your kidneys aren’t working well, creatinine levels can rise, which may signal kidney damage or disease.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure creatinine concentration. The test can be qualitative (yes/no presence) or quantitative (exact amount).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods for a short time if instructed by your healthcare provider. Drink plenty of water the day before if your doctor suggests it.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down on a table while a healthcare provider inserts a small needle into your arm. A small amount of blood is collected into a tube. This process typically takes a few minutes and may cause a slight pinch.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High creatinine levels may indicate kidney problems, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, or conditions that affect blood flow to the kidneys. Low levels might suggest dehydration or overhydration. Always discuss results with your doctor, as they’ll consider your overall health and other test results to interpret them accurately.
Short name
Creatinine Level (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes creatinine levels to change?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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