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Serum Creatinine Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle breakdown, in your blood serum. It helps assess how well your kidneys are filtering blood.

Quick summary

["Kidney function is evaluated by checking how well your kidneys remove waste products like creatinine from your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25000-1
Short code
XR TMJ Views
Synonyms
XR TMJ Views
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 Is This Test 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 disease. It can also be used to check for kidney problems before surgery or during treatment for certain illnesses.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a larger kidney function panel, but this is not always required for a standalone creatinine test.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Results?

Results are usually reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Higher than expected levels may indicate reduced kidney function, while lower levels could suggest muscle breakdown or other conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Creatinine (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High or Low Creatinine Level Mean?
High creatinine levels often signal impaired kidney function, meaning your kidneys aren’t filtering blood as well as they should. This can be due to kidney disease, dehydration, or other health issues. Low levels may suggest dehydration, muscle loss, or liver disease, but further evaluation is needed to confirm.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status. For example, people with kidney disease may need regular monitoring, while others may only need it once or twice a year.
Can I Avoid This Test?
No, this test is essential for monitoring kidney health. Skipping it could delay the detection of kidney problems, which may require early treatment to prevent further damage.
  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