Serum/Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Substance Concentration)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood or plasma. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.
["Kidney function check: High levels may signal kidney problems; low levels could indicate dehydration or other conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7450-0
- Short code
- Goosefoot BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Synonyms
- Goosefoot BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- lhr
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle breakdown and is naturally filtered out of your blood by your kidneys. Your body produces creatinine at a fairly steady rate, so levels can reflect how well your kidneys are working. This test is often used to monitor kidney health, especially in people with risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw (serum/plasma) or urine sample collected, depending on the specific test ordered. If you’re taking certain medications or have a history of kidney issues, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors may order creatinine tests to check for kidney problems, monitor chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, evaluate symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output, or assess the effects of medications that can affect kidney function.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically compared to a reference range provided by your lab. High creatinine levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while very low levels could suggest dehydration or other health issues. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated creatinine levels often signal impaired kidney function, which can lead to complications like fluid buildup, electrolyte imbalances, or even kidney failure if untreated. Regular monitoring helps detect problems early and allows for timely medical intervention. Low levels may raise concerns about dehydration or other metabolic issues, so follow-up with your healthcare provider is important.
Short name
Creatinine Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What can affect my creatinine levels?
Do I need to fast before this 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