Serum Creatinine (from whole blood)
This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood. It helps assess kidney function.
["A creatinine test helps doctors check how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105799-1
- Short code
- S. capitis+S. hominis DNA Ct Bld +Qn
- Synonyms
- S. capitis+S. hominis DNA Ct Bld +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
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 out by your kidneys. High levels may indicate kidney problems, while low levels could suggest muscle disorders or dehydration. Your doctor may order this test to monitor kidney health, especially if you have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
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 recently exercised, let your doctor know—these can affect results.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, elevated levels may signal reduced kidney function, while very low levels could raise concerns about muscle metabolism or hydration status. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
High creatinine levels may be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or severe muscle damage. Low levels could result from muscle wasting, liver disease, or overhydration. Other factors like certain medications or kidney disorders can also influence results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Creatinine levels are a key indicator of kidney function, often used alongside other tests like blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to diagnose or monitor kidney disease. Regular monitoring helps detect early signs of kidney problems, which can be managed with lifestyle changes or medical treatment.
Short name
Creatinine Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my creatinine level be higher than usual?
Could diet affect my creatinine test results?
What should I do if my creatinine test is abnormal?
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