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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 plasma. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.

Quick summary

["A creatinine test helps doctors check kidney function and diagnose kidney disease early."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1713-7
Short code
PACP Smn-cCnc
Synonyms
PACP Smn-cCnc
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 if you have symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output. It’s also used to monitor kidney health in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions that affect the kidneys.

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 larger blood draw. Wear loose clothing and wear a shirt with sleeves rolled up for easy access.

How the Test Works

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab, where it’s analyzed to measure creatinine levels using a specialized technique, often automated and precise.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels may indicate kidney problems, while lower levels could suggest muscle breakdown or other conditions. Your doctor will compare your results to your baseline and other health factors to interpret them accurately.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing and managing kidney disease, monitoring chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, and guiding treatments such as medications or dialysis. Abnormal results may signal early kidney damage that needs attention.

Short name

Creatinine Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes creatinine levels to be too high?
High creatinine levels can result from reduced kidney function, dehydration, severe muscle damage, or certain medications. Chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure are common underlying causes.
What causes creatinine levels to be too low?
Low creatinine levels may occur if you have very little muscle mass, severe malnutrition, or liver disease, which affects muscle breakdown. Rarely, it could indicate overhydration or certain genetic conditions.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status. People with kidney disease or risk factors may need tests every few months or annually, while others may only need it once or twice a year.
  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