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Creatinine — Mass Concentration, Turbidimetric

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A test that measures creatinine in a body-fluid sample using a turbidimetric method. Creatinine is commonly used to assess kidney filtration.

Quick summary

["Creatinine helps evaluate kidney function, but the result must be interpreted with the sample type and other health information."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111119-4
Short code
Phe/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Phe/Creat Msmt Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Creatinine is a waste product made by the muscles and filtered by the kidneys. This laboratory test measures the amount of creatinine in a sample, with turbidimetry used to determine the concentration.

Why might I need this test?

Creatinine is often checked as part of a kidney function panel or to monitor people with kidney disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. When creatinine is measured in urine, it may also be used to assess how substances are being excreted.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the submitted sample using a chemical reaction. The turbidimetric method measures how much light passes through the mixture, with the result used to calculate the creatinine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the specimen required by your healthcare provider. Follow the collection instructions carefully, including any timing or complete-collection requirements for a urine sample. Fasting is generally not needed unless your clinician specifically requests it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Does a creatinine test show how well my kidneys are working?
It can help assess kidney filtration, but it is usually interpreted with other tests, such as estimated glomerular filtration rate and urine albumin.
Why do creatinine results sometimes differ between laboratories?
Different testing methods, sample types, and laboratory equipment can produce somewhat different results. Your care team should interpret the value using the reference information from the laboratory that performed the test.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary for a routine creatinine test. Follow the specific instructions provided for your blood or urine collection.
  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