Serum Creatinine (Creatinine Level)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood serum. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.
["A creatinine test checks kidney function by measuring waste product levels in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 70257-1
- Short code
- ENA SS-A 52kD IgG Ser IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- ENA SS-A 52kD IgG 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
- 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
Your kidneys normally filter waste products like creatinine from your blood. High levels can signal kidney problems, including reduced kidney function or damage. This test is often used alongside other measures to monitor kidney health, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.
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. If you’re on a low-protein diet or have recently exercised, your doctor may advise timing your test to avoid temporary fluctuations in results.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Elevated creatinine levels may indicate poor kidney function, dehydration, or conditions like muscle disorders or heart failure. Lower levels might suggest overhydration or certain liver/kidney diseases. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
How Results Are Used
Your doctor may use creatinine levels to calculate your **eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate)**, a measure of kidney function. They may also compare results over time to track kidney health, especially if you have chronic conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing and managing kidney disease, guiding treatment plans, and preventing complications. It’s often included in routine health checks or when symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or frequent urination appear.
Short name
Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
What triggers a creatinine test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
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