Skip to content

Serum Creatinine (Standard Method)

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

This test measures the level of creatinine, a waste product from muscle breakdown, in your blood to assess kidney function.

Quick summary

["Your kidneys filter waste from blood; high creatinine may signal kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52757-2
Short code
SERPINE1 c.-675 4G+5G Bld/T Ql
Synonyms
SERPINE1 c.-675 4G+5G Bld/T Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
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 helps doctors check how well your kidneys are working. It’s often used alongside other tests to detect early kidney damage, such as from diabetes or high blood pressure.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your doctor specifies it. Bring your lab results and current medications.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High creatinine levels may indicate reduced kidney function, dehydration, or muscle disorders. Low levels could suggest overhydration or liver/kidney disease.

How Results Are Interpreted

Results are compared to your baseline or lab reference ranges (not provided here). Your doctor will discuss whether your level is normal or if further testing is needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated creatinine is a key marker for kidney disease. It’s often used alongside blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to diagnose or monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, or kidney stones.

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a creatinine test?
A doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or frequent urination; if you have a history of kidney disease; or if you’re taking medications that affect kidney function.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Follow-up with your provider if you have questions about your results.
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
Dietary protein intake can influence creatinine levels, but the test itself doesn’t measure protein directly. Your doctor may ask about recent meals if results seem unusually high.
  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