Serum Creatinine (Creatinine)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. It helps assess kidney function.
["Your kidneys filter waste from blood; this test checks how well they’re doing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11906-5
- Short code
- GA from BPD.Kurtz80
- Synonyms
- GA from BPD.Kurtz80
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-estimated-from-bpd-kurtz
- 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 can indicate how well your kidneys are working. High levels may signal kidney damage or disease, while low levels could suggest dehydration or muscle loss. Your doctor may order this test to monitor kidney health, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of kidney problems.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic panel. Drink plenty of water the day before to help your kidneys function normally. Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activity that could raise muscle breakdown and creatinine levels temporarily.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your age, sex, and overall health. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or follow-up to investigate potential kidney issues. Your doctor will discuss the results with you in detail.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated creatinine levels often signal impaired kidney function, as the kidneys normally filter waste products like creatinine from the blood. Chronic kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions like heart failure can raise creatinine. Conversely, very low levels may indicate dehydration, severe muscle wasting, or liver disease. Regular monitoring of creatinine is vital for managing chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
Short name
Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect my creatinine levels?
What if my results are out of the normal 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