Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Standard Method)
This test measures the level of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.
["A creatinine test checks kidney function by measuring waste in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81757-7
- Short code
- LPT IL-2 max/CD3 NFr Bld FC
- Synonyms
- LPT IL-2 max/CD3 NFr Bld FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- 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
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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
Your kidneys normally filter waste products, including creatinine, from your blood. High levels may indicate kidney problems, while low levels could suggest dehydration or muscle breakdown. This test is often used alongside other kidney function tests to monitor overall kidney health.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on a low-protein diet or have had recent muscle activity, let your provider know, as these can affect results.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
High creatinine levels may signal kidney disease, dehydration, or conditions like heart failure or severe muscle damage. Low levels might suggest dehydration, overhydration, or certain liver or muscle disorders. Always discuss any changes with your healthcare team.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may order this test to check kidney function before surgeries, during pregnancy, if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or frequent urination, or if you have a history of kidney issues.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
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.
This test is a key part of diagnosing and monitoring kidney disease, helping providers track how well your kidneys are working over time. It’s also used to assess kidney function in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions.
Short name
Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘normal’ creatinine level mean for me?
Can diet or exercise affect my creatinine test results?
How often should I get 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