Serum or plasma mass concentration of creatinine
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. It helps assess kidney function.
["A creatinine test helps doctors check how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53647-4
- Short code
- FAD Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- FAD Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Creatinine levels can indicate how efficiently your kidneys are working. High levels may signal kidney problems, while low levels could suggest dehydration or muscle loss. This test is often part of a broader kidney function evaluation.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this isn’t always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results. Avoid strenuous activity or excessive fluid intake on the day of the test.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
High creatinine levels might be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions that increase muscle breakdown. Low levels could result from dehydration, severe muscle loss, or certain medications. Always discuss symptoms with your healthcare provider.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure creatinine concentration using a specialized test method, often an enzymatic or automated technique.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Creatinine is a reliable marker for kidney function because it’s produced at a steady rate based on muscle mass and cleared by the kidneys. Elevated levels often signal impaired kidney function, prompting further evaluation for conditions like chronic kidney disease. It can also help monitor kidney health during treatments or after injuries.
Short name
Creatinine level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Does diet affect creatinine levels?
What if my results are out of range?
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