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Serum Creatinine (Mass Concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

["Kidney function check with a simple blood test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38294-5
Short code
trans-1,2-DCE Wat-mCnc
Synonyms
trans-1,2-DCE Wat-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate kidney health, monitor chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, or check for kidney damage. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose or manage kidney-related issues.

What Does It Tell You?

Higher than expected levels may suggest poor kidney function, while lower levels could indicate dehydration or muscle breakdown. However, results alone don’t diagnose kidney disease—your doctor will consider other factors.

How Is It Done?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure creatinine concentration.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about recent illnesses, medications (especially pain relievers or diuretics), or dietary changes that might affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Your doctor may use this test to track kidney function over time, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of kidney problems. Abnormal results could prompt further testing or adjustments to treatment.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can diet or exercise affect this test?
Does this test detect kidney disease directly?
No, it’s one piece of the puzzle. Kidney disease is often diagnosed using a combination of creatinine levels, urine tests, and clinical symptoms. Your doctor will interpret results in context with your overall health.
  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