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Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood plasma. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.

Quick summary

["Kidney function and waste removal depend on this test."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47914-7
Short code
GH 30M p TRH SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 30M p TRH SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test to check for kidney problems, monitor kidney disease progression, or evaluate kidney function before certain procedures. It’s also used to monitor treatments for conditions affecting kidney function.

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 panel. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

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 levels using a specialized method.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Higher-than-normal levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while lower levels could suggest dehydration or overhydration. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your overall health and medical history.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high creatinine level mean?
A high creatinine level often signals that your kidneys aren’t filtering blood efficiently, which can be linked to chronic kidney disease, kidney damage, or other conditions like heart disease or diabetes.
What does a low creatinine level mean?
Low levels may suggest dehydration, overhydration, or muscle loss (e.g., from illness or malnutrition). It’s less common but can also indicate certain metabolic disorders.
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
Yes, high-protein foods or muscle activity can temporarily raise creatinine levels. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments if kidney function is being monitored.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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