Biomarker education

Creatinine

Also called: Serum creatinine

Creatinine is a waste product measured in blood and often used when assessing kidney-related lab context.

General biomarker education — not personalized medical advice. Learn more

What it generally measures

Muscles produce creatinine as part of normal metabolism. Kidneys help clear it; labs report the concentration in serum or plasma.

Common units on reports: mg/dL

Why people track it over time

Creatinine is frequently reviewed with eGFR over time. Changes can have many explanations — only a clinician can interpret them for you.

Changes over time do not by themselves establish a diagnosis. Learn more

Questions you might ask a healthcare professional

  • Ask how this creatinine compares with your prior values and with eGFR on the same report.
  • Mention medications or hydration context your clinician has said may matter.
  • Ask whether the lab’s reference range and method match prior reports.

Related markers

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Part of Kindpanel education · Lab results guide