Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood or plasma. It helps assess kidney function.
["Kidney health check: creatinine levels help detect early kidney problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7539-0
- Short code
- Oat BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Synonyms
- Oat 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 filtered by your kidneys. High levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while low levels could suggest dehydration or other conditions. Your doctor may order this test to monitor kidney health, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of kidney issues.
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. Drink plenty of water the day before to ensure accurate results. Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activity 24 hours prior.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can help with positioning or numbing the area.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a baseline or reference range provided by your lab. Abnormally high levels may signal kidney problems, while very low levels might indicate dehydration or other metabolic 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.
Creatinine levels are a key marker for kidney function. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often shows up early with elevated creatinine, even before symptoms like fatigue or swelling appear. Regular monitoring helps track kidney health over time, especially in people with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease.
Short name
Creatinine Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise affect creatinine levels?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
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