Creatinine

About this test

Creatinine is a waste product formed during breakdown of creatine. Creatinine is removed from the body by the kidneys which acts as a blood filter released into the urine.

This test measures the amount of creatinine in the blood.

Creatine is part of the cycle that produces energy for muscles to contract. Levels are produced at a constant rate and because it is filtered by kidneys, the blood levels are usually a good indicator of how well the kidneys are functioning.

Creatinine tests are often used together with Urea tests.Creatinine is usually ordered as part of a general health screen, to evaluate people for kidney diseases and to monitor the response to treatment.

Who is this test for?

Creatinine tests are commonly ordered for the following reasons:

• Part of a general health screen
• To assess the kidney functioning before starting to take certain medication
• When an acutely ill person comes to the casualty and/or is admitted to the hospital
• During the hospital stay
• When specific symptoms of kidney problems are present:
• Swelling and puffiness
• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Sleeping problems
• Change in urine colour
• Low urine output
• Problems with urination
• Chronic diseases e.g. High blood pressure and Diabetes Mellites
• To monitor kidney function in those with chronic diseases
• To monitor kidney function and treatment in people with kidney disease
• To monitor the effectiveness of dialysis