Creatinine clearance

Definition

Creatinine clearance is a measure of how efficiently the kidneys filter creatinine, a waste product, from the blood. It is used to assess renal function and estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Creatinine clearance is usually measured through a 24-hour urine collection and a blood sample.
2. It helps in diagnosing and monitoring kidney diseases.
3. Low creatinine clearance indicates impaired kidney function or chronic kidney disease (CKD).
4. Diet, muscle mass, and medications can affect creatinine levels.
5. Normal creatinine clearance values differ between men (97-137 mL/min) and women (88-128 mL/min).

Review Questions

• What is creatinine clearance used to assess?
• How is creatinine clearance typically measured?
• What factors can influence creatinine levels in the body?

Related terms

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): An estimate of how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A long-term condition where the kidneys do not work effectively.

Urea Clearance: A test that measures how well urea is being removed from the blood by the kidneys.