What is this test?
Creatinine is a substance produced in the muscles and excreted by the kidneys. It is the most commonly used test for assessing the kidneys' filtering capacity; the eGFR value, calculated using age and sex, shows kidney function in more detail.
When is it requested?
Assessment of kidney function
What does a high Creatinine result mean?
High creatinine may mean the kidneys are filtering blood less effectively, but muscle mass, dehydration, hard exercise and some medicines can also raise it.
- High muscle mass or intense exercise
- Eating a lot of red meat before the test, or creatine supplements
- Dehydration
- Certain medicines (e.g., some blood pressure drugs, painkillers, some antibiotics)
- Urinary tract blockage (e.g., enlarged prostate, stones)
- Acute kidney injury
- Chronic kidney disease (e.g., due to diabetes or high blood pressure)
What does a low Creatinine result mean?
Low creatinine usually reflects low muscle mass and is most often not a sign of disease.
- Low muscle mass (slim build, older age)
- Pregnancy (normal increase in kidney filtration)
- Low-protein or meat-free diet
- Prolonged inactivity or being bedridden
- Diseases that cause muscle wasting
My result is outside the reference range. What should I do?
Results are interpreted with eGFR, which accounts for age and sex. Avoid hard exercise and large meat meals the day before; a high result is usually confirmed with a repeat test.
Reference ranges depend on the method, age and sex; always use the range printed on your report. This information is for general guidance only; consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Sample information
- Sample type: Serum
- Tube / container: Red / yellow-top tube
- Sample volume: 1 mL
Preparation
No special preparation is required. If you are unsure, ask us before your blood draw.
Testing and results
- Method: Spec
- Run schedule: Daily
- Turnaround time: 3 hours
Price and appointment
Add the test to your list to receive a price quote by e-mail, or call +90 850 640 07 30 / message us on WhatsApp (+90 537 301 22 14). You can have the test done at our branches or with our home blood collection service. Results can be viewed online with your Turkish ID number (or passport number for foreign nationals).