Serum Creatinine (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.
A creatinine test helps check kidney function and overall health.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47915-4
- Short code
- GH 3h p betaxolol+Gc SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 3h p betaxolol+Gc 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 monitor kidney health, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney problems. It can also be used to check for kidney disease, track kidney function over time, or evaluate symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a larger blood draw. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near a testing facility for a short time.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a quick pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Results?
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Higher than expected levels may indicate kidney problems, while lower levels could suggest muscle breakdown or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated creatinine levels often signal reduced kidney function, as the kidneys normally filter waste products like creatinine from the blood. Doctors use this test to diagnose kidney disease, monitor progression, or assess treatment effectiveness. It’s also useful for identifying early signs of kidney damage before symptoms appear.
Short name
Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What can affect my creatinine levels?
Is there anything I should avoid 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