Serum or Plasma Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)
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.
["A creatinine test helps check kidney function and overall health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36328-3
- Short code
- XR Ribs-Bl 4V
- Synonyms
- XR Ribs-Bl 4V
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to monitor kidney health, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of kidney problems. It can also be used to check for kidney disease, track kidney function over time, or evaluate the effects of certain medications or treatments on your kidneys.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader kidney function panel. Drink plenty of water the day before if your doctor recommends it, as hydration can help prepare your kidneys for testing.
How the Test Is Done
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site.
What the Results Mean
Higher than expected creatinine levels may suggest kidney problems, while lower levels could indicate dehydration or muscle breakdown. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your overall health and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Creatinine levels are a key indicator of kidney function. Elevated levels often signal impaired kidney function, which can lead to buildup of waste products in your blood. Regular monitoring helps detect kidney issues early and guides treatment decisions.
Short name
Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
What causes creatinine levels to be higher than usual?
Is fasting required for this test?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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