Testing for Creatinine (Cr) in the Blood

Creatinine is a chemical waste produced by the body and excreted by the kidneys.

The serum creatinine test is ordered usually along with blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to assess kidney function of the body.

Normal Values

  • For men reference range is 0.7 to 1.3 mg/dL
  • For women normal levels are 0.6 to 1.1 mg/dL

Values are low for women as they have less muscle mass.

Preparing for the Lab Testing

No specific preparation is required for s. creatinine lab test. Inform your doctor about any medication being taken, as some medicines may interfere with the Cr blood test.

Conditions Where the Test Is Ordered

  • Before any operative procedure, to assess the condition of the kidney
  • In diseases which are likely to affect the kidneys like, diabetes etc.
  • Kidney diseases
  • High blood pressure
  • Assess dehydration
  • Measure the toxicity of certain drugs which affect the kidneys adversely
  • Trauma or conditions with muscle loss

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