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Creatinine Clearance
Overview & Description
This is a test of kidney function. It measures the amount of fluid filtered each minute by the kidneys.
Creatinine is made in the muscles and filtered through the kidneys. Almost all the creatinine released from the muscles makes its way into the urine as a waste product. Comparing the amount of creatinine in the blood with the amount of creatinine in the urine gives an idea of how well the kidneys are functioning.
Who is a candidate for the test?
Anyone whose has kidneys that may not be functioning well may need a creatinine clearance test.
How is the test performed?
This test is done with a urine sample gathered over a 24- hour period. The person should follow the specific instructions of the doctor on how to collect the urine sample. In general, this schedule is followed:
The person will also have a blood sample done so the blood level of creatinine can be measured and compared with that found in the 24-hour urine sample.
Preparation & Expectations
What is involved in preparation for the test?
The person should request exact instructions from his or her doctor.
Results and Values
What do the test results mean?
The healthy range of glomerular filtration rates for creatinine clearance is as follows:
Abnormally low glomerular filtration rates may suggest:
Attribution
Author:David T. Moran, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Crist, Gayle P., MS, BA
Edit Date:06/27/02
Reviewer:Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:10/15/02