Creatinine test

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Why it's done

By Mayo Clinic staff

A serum creatinine test — which measures the level of creatinine in your blood — can indicate whether your kidneys are working properly. How often you need creatinine tests depends on any underlying conditions and your risk of kidney damage. For example:

  • If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, your doctor may recommend a creatinine test at least once a year.
  • If you have kidney disease, your doctor may recommend creatinine tests at regular intervals to monitor your condition.
  • Your doctor may recommend creatinine tests if you have an illness that may affect your kidneys or you're taking medication that may affect your kidneys.

MY00144

July 31, 2008

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