Skip to content

Creatinine, Urine

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

Measures the amount of creatinine in urine. Creatinine is a waste product used to help assess kidney function and urine concentration.

Quick summary

["Urine creatinine helps clinicians evaluate kidney function, hydration, and the concentration of substances measured in urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52905-7
Short code
Silver/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Silver/Creat Ur-sRto
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 produced by the muscles and filtered by the kidneys. Measuring creatinine in urine can help clinicians assess kidney function and determine how concentrated a urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate kidney function, check hydration, or help interpret another urine measurement. It may also be included when monitoring certain medicines or medical conditions that can affect the kidneys or muscle mass.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and the amount of creatinine is measured in the laboratory. The sample may be a one-time collection or part of a timed collection, depending on the test ordered.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. For a timed collection, collect all urine during the specified period and record the start and finish times.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A urine creatinine result that is lower than expected may occur with reduced kidney filtration, severe dehydration, or lower muscle mass. A higher result may occur with adequate hydration, increased muscle mass, or kidney injury; interpretation depends on the collection method and other findings.

Short name

Urine Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Why is urine creatinine tested?
Urine creatinine is commonly used as a marker of kidney filtration and to help evaluate urine concentration. It can also help adjust other urine measurements for differences in concentration.
Does this test require a 24-hour urine collection?
It depends on the order. Some tests use a single urine sample, while others require all urine collected over a specified period, commonly 24 hours.
What does the word “silver” in the test code mean?
“Silver” is not a standard abbreviation for the creatinine measurement described here. Because its meaning in this code is unclear, confirm the exact test name and specimen with the ordering laboratory or healthcare professional.
  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