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Kidney Function

Creatinine, Serum

Normal range 0.6–1.3 mg/dL (53–115 µmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum or plasma.

Also known as: serum creatinine, Cr, SCr.

0.6–1.3 mg/dLCritical: read below

Reference range

Conventionalmg/dL
0.61.3
SIµmol/L
53115
SpecimenSerum or plasma
Conventional range0.6–1.3 mg/dL
SI range53–115 µmol/L
Conversion factor×88.4 (conventional → SI)
Critical value> 4.0 mg/dL (or a rapid rise) indicates significant renal impairment
PanelKidney Function

Convert any Creatinine, Serum result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Creatinine, Serum?

The standard teaching reference range for Creatinine, Serum is 0.6–1.3 mg/dL in conventional units, or 53–115 µmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum or plasma.

A commonly taught critical (panic) value is > 4.0 mg/dL (or a rapid rise) indicates significant renal impairment. Critical results are reported to the provider immediately under your facility's policy.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Creatinine, Serum

  • Acute or chronic kidney disease
  • Dehydration
  • Rhabdomyolysis
  • Nephrotoxic drugs

Below the range

Common causes of a low Creatinine, Serum

  • Low muscle mass
  • Advanced liver disease
  • Pregnancy

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • A more specific kidney marker than BUN because it reflects glomerular filtration.
  • Higher in people with greater muscle mass; interpret with eGFR.

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