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Serum or Plasma 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 blood. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.

Quick summary

["Kidney function is evaluated by checking creatinine levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54031-0
Short code
ENA SM-D Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
ENA SM-D Ab 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
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 disease, monitor kidney function over time, or evaluate how well your kidneys are working after treatment for conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually causes only minor discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels may indicate poor kidney function, while lower levels could suggest overhydration or other medical conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor kidney disease, chronic kidney conditions, or to assess kidney function in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health issues that may affect kidney function.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Creatinine levels are a key indicator of kidney function because they reflect how well your kidneys filter waste products from your blood. Elevated levels may signal reduced kidney function, while persistently low levels may warrant further investigation.

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What causes creatinine levels to be higher than normal?
Several factors can influence creatinine levels, including muscle mass, hydration status, and certain medications. Kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions like heart failure can also raise levels.
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 treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be recommended if you have chronic kidney disease or other conditions affecting kidney function.
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
Dietary changes, such as eating more protein, can temporarily affect creatinine levels. However, your doctor will consider overall health and medical history when interpreting results, not just diet alone.
  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