Creatinine: What It Means for Your Health
Creatinine is a waste product produced by the normal breakdown of creatine in muscles. It is produced at a relatively constant rate and is almost entirely filtered out by the kidneys, making it an excellent marker of kidney function. When kidney function declines, creatinine accumulates in the blood. Creatinine levels are influenced by muscle mass, so reference ranges differ between men and women.
Reference Range
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.
What Is Creatinine?
Creatinine is a waste product produced by the normal breakdown of creatine in muscles. It is produced at a relatively constant rate and is almost entirely filtered out by the kidneys, making it an excellent marker of kidney function. When kidney function declines, creatinine accumulates in the blood. Creatinine levels are influenced by muscle mass, so reference ranges differ between men and women.
Commonly included in:
What Does High Creatinine Mean?
Elevated creatinine indicates reduced kidney function (acute or chronic kidney disease), dehydration, urinary tract obstruction, high-protein diets, intense exercise, certain medications (ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs), or rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown). A sustained creatinine elevation requires evaluation of kidney function with eGFR.
What Does Low Creatinine Mean?
Low creatinine may indicate reduced muscle mass (common in elderly, malnutrition, or muscle-wasting conditions), pregnancy (increased kidney filtration), or liver disease (reduced creatine production). It is generally not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other abnormalities.
Related Biomarkers in Kidney Function
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.