Increased serum creatinine
Increased Serum Creatinine
Serum creatinine is a serum test that measures the level of creatinine in the bloodstream. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is filtered out of the bloodstream by the kidneys. An increased creatinine level in the serum indicates a problem with the kidneys' ability to remove wastes from the body. High creatinine levels can be a sign of kidney disease, congestive heart failure, and other problems.
Causes of Increased Serum Creatinine
There are several possible causes for an increased creatinine level in the serum. They include:
- Kidney disease, such as glomerulonephritis or chronic kidney disease
- Blockage of the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone
- Dehydration
- Severe infection
- Congestive heart failure
- Frequent and intense exercise
- Liver disease
- Certain medications, such as diuretics or steroids
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your doctor suspects that your creatinine level is elevated, they will order additional tests, such as a complete blood count and urinalysis, to confirm the diagnosis. The treatment for elevated serum creatinine depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is a kidney infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. If the cause is heart failure, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce fluid retention. If the cause is dehydration, your doctor may recommend drinking more fluids and electrolyte supplements. In some cases, surgery may be required to clear any blockages in the urinary tract.