Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your plasma. It helps assess kidney function.
["Kidney health and filtering ability can be evaluated with this simple blood test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48131-7
- Short code
- GH 30M pre TRH SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 30M pre TRH SerPl-aCnc
- 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 how well your kidneys are working, monitor kidney disease, or evaluate symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine output. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose conditions like chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury.
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 ensure your kidneys are functioning normally.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Results Mean?
Results help determine if your kidneys are filtering waste properly. Abnormally high or low levels may signal kidney problems, but interpretation depends on your overall health and other test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High creatinine levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while persistently low levels could suggest overhydration or muscle disorders. Regular monitoring is critical for patients with diabetes, hypertension, or a history of kidney issues, as creatinine helps track progression and guide treatment adjustments.
Short name
Creatinine Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What causes creatinine levels to be too high?
What if my creatinine level is abnormal?
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