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Serum Creatinine with Substance Concentration Measurement (Bromocresol Green Method)

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

This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your blood serum. It helps assess kidney function.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors check how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85986-8
Short code
S pneum Da 12F Ab sp2 Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
S pneum Da 12F Ab sp2 Ser-aCnc
Category
coagulation
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

What Does This Test Measure?

Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle breakdown and is normally filtered out by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate reduced kidney function or damage.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test to monitor kidney health, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is then tested using a bromocresol green method to measure creatinine concentration.

What Are Common Results?

Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). While specific ranges vary by lab, higher than expected levels may signal kidney issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?
A high creatinine level may indicate poor kidney function, while very low levels (rare) could suggest muscle atrophy or severe liver disease. Your doctor will interpret results in context with your overall health.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Frequency depends on your health status. If you have kidney-related conditions, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, it’s often part of routine check-ups or when symptoms arise.
Can Diet or Exercise Affect My Test Results?
Dietary protein intake can temporarily affect creatinine levels, so avoid high-protein meals 24 hours before testing. Exercise itself doesn’t impact the test but may influence muscle metabolism indirectly.
  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