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Total Creatinine, Urine

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

Measures the amount of creatinine in urine. It is commonly used to assess kidney function and the concentration of a urine sample.

Quick summary

["Urine creatinine helps evaluate kidney function and is often interpreted alongside other urine measurements."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13478-3
Short code
THC/Creat Ur
Synonyms
THC/Creat 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 through the kidneys. This test measures the amount of creatinine present in a urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

Urine creatinine may be checked as part of a group of kidney tests. It can help assess kidney function and is often used to account for differences in urine concentration when evaluating other substances.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The result may be reported as a concentration or as the total amount present in the collected urine, depending on the collection method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. If a timed collection is requested, collect and record all urine for the specified period and store it as directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does urine creatinine measure?
It measures the amount of a muscle waste product that is being excreted in urine. Creatinine is filtered by the kidneys and is commonly used to evaluate kidney function.
Is a urine creatinine test the same as a blood creatinine test?
No. Blood creatinine estimates creatinine in the bloodstream, while urine creatinine measures how much is present in the urine. The two results are interpreted differently.
Do I need to collect all of my urine for this test?
That depends on the instructions for your test. Some tests use a single urine sample, while others require all urine collected over a specified period.
  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