Creatinine
What it measures
Creatinine is a waste product from normal muscle activity that your kidneys filter out of your blood.
Often reported in mg/dL. Reference ranges differ between laboratories, ages and sexes, so always compare with the range printed on your own report.
Why it matters
Creatinine is commonly used as one indicator of kidney function, alongside other tests, and can also be affected by muscle mass, hydration, and diet.
Questions worth asking
- Should this be looked at alongside an eGFR or BUN result?
- Could hydration, diet, or muscle mass be influencing this number?
- Is a repeat test or kidney function panel a reasonable next step?
Have a result for Creatinine?
Upload your report or type in your values and get a plain-language explanation of every marker. Your first report is free and needs no account.
Explain my resultsRelated markers
Educational information only. Not a diagnosis, not treatment advice, and not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional.