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Creatinine, Urine

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

A urine test that measures creatinine, a waste product produced by the muscles and filtered by the kidneys.

Quick summary

["Urine creatinine helps assess kidney function and may be compared with blood creatinine to evaluate kidney filtration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52917-2
Short code
Tin/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Tin/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?

This test measures creatinine in urine. Creatinine is a breakdown product of muscle activity that is mainly cleared from the body by the kidneys.

Why might I need this test?

Urine creatinine may be used to assess kidney function, check the amount of urine being produced, and evaluate certain causes of changes in body fluid levels. It may also be compared with a blood creatinine result.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample in a sterile container. The laboratory measures the creatinine concentration or amount in the urine; collection instructions may involve a single sample or a timed collection.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Tell the laboratory if you recently had vigorous exercise, because muscle activity can temporarily increase creatinine levels, and do not change your fluid intake unless instructed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal urine creatinine result may reflect changes in kidney filtration, dehydration, reduced urine production, or differences in muscle activity and muscle mass. Interpretation depends on the collection method and the person's age, diet, medications, and other laboratory results.

Short name

Urine creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a serum creatinine test?
No. A serum creatinine test measures creatinine in blood, while this test measures creatinine in urine. The two results are often interpreted together to estimate kidney filtration.
Why is urine creatinine sometimes measured with a blood sample?
Comparing urine and blood creatinine helps clinicians estimate how effectively the kidneys filter waste from the blood.
Can exercise affect the result?
Yes. Strenuous exercise can temporarily increase muscle breakdown and creatinine production, so the laboratory may ask about recent physical activity.
  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