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Serum or 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 or plasma. It helps assess kidney function.

Quick summary

["Kidney function check via creatinine levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58706-3
Short code
OmpC IgA Ser Ql IA
Synonyms
OmpC IgA Ser Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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 healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. It’s often used to monitor kidney health, especially if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output. It may also be part of routine check-ups or before certain procedures.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

High levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while low levels could suggest overhydration, muscle breakdown, or errors in test collection. However, individual results depend on factors like age, sex, and overall health.

How Is This Test Performed?

A 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 concentration using a specialized method (often enzymatic or nephelometric).

What Should You Do Before the Test?

Avoid excessive alcohol or high-protein meals 24 hours before testing, as they may affect results. Also, inform your provider about any medications, especially those for diabetes or heart conditions, as they could influence kidney function.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine Level

Frequently asked questions

Creatinine levels are a key indicator of kidney function because they reflect how well your kidneys remove waste products from your blood. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI) can alter creatinine levels, making this test critical for early detection and management of these conditions. It’s also used to assess kidney function before surgeries or during pregnancy.
This test alone doesn’t diagnose kidney disease but is part of a broader evaluation. Other tests, like urine protein or blood pressure monitoring, may be needed for a full assessment.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. People with kidney-related conditions may need it more often, while healthy individuals might get it as part of routine check-ups every few years.
Can diet affect my creatinine levels?
Yes, high-protein diets or dehydration can temporarily raise creatinine levels. Avoiding excessive protein and staying hydrated can help stabilize results.
  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