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Serum/Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Standard Method)

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 how well your kidneys are filtering blood.

Quick summary

["A key indicator of kidney function and blood chemistry."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22614-2
Short code
WEEV IgG Titr Ser
Synonyms
WEEV IgG Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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 This Test Matters

Your kidneys normally filter waste products like creatinine from your blood. High levels may signal kidney problems, while low levels could indicate dehydration or muscle breakdown. This test is often used alongside other measures to monitor kidney health, especially in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of kidney issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic panel. Drink plenty of water the day before to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab where creatinine levels are measured using a standard chemical method.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a reference range specific to your age, sex, and overall health. Elevated levels may suggest kidney dysfunction, while persistently low levels could warrant further investigation for conditions like dehydration or muscle atrophy.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health history, symptoms, and risk factors. For example, people with chronic kidney disease may need it more frequently, while healthy individuals may only need it as part of routine check-ups.
What causes creatinine levels to be too high?
High creatinine levels can result from kidney disease, dehydration, severe muscle damage, or conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys. Chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure are common contributors.
Can diet affect creatinine levels?
Dietary changes alone won’t alter creatinine levels, but they can influence kidney function indirectly. High-protein diets may temporarily increase creatinine if your kidneys aren’t filtering efficiently, so balance is key.
  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