Calculated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) from Serum Creatinine
This test estimates how well your kidneys are filtering waste products from your blood using a simple blood sample. It helps assess kidney function over time.
["A GFR test helps doctors monitor kidney health and detect early signs of kidney damage."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 70969-1
- Short code
- GFR SerPlBld Creatinine-bsd fmlaMale
- Synonyms
- GFR SerPlBld Creatinine-bsd fmlaMale
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.6
- Ref high
- 1.3
- Critical range
- — – 10 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- creatinine-based-formula-mdrd-sq-m-among-male-population
- CPT
- 82565
- SNOMED
- 247997009
- 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 if you have symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or fatigue, or if you have a family history of kidney disease. It’s also used to check kidney function before certain treatments or surgeries.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where creatinine levels are measured, and the GFR is calculated using a formula that accounts for your age, sex, and creatinine value.
What Does the Result Mean?
The result gives a number representing your estimated kidney function. Lower numbers may indicate reduced kidney function, but exact interpretations depend on your overall health and medical history.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
High creatinine levels or low GFR can be caused by kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, dehydration, or certain medications. Low levels may suggest overhydration or other conditions affecting kidney output.
Reference range
Adult male: 0.7-1.3 mg/dL; Female: 0.6-1.1 mg/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is a key tool for diagnosing and managing kidney disease, guiding treatment plans, and preventing progression to more serious health issues like kidney failure.
Short name
GFR (Serum Creatinine) Calculation
Frequently asked questions
Will I feel any discomfort during the blood draw?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink before the 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