What is the normal range for creatinine (Cr) in the blood?

The normal range for creatinine in the blood, which reflects kidney function, is generally accepted to be between 0.7 and 1.4 mg/dL. Creatinine is a waste product formed from the normal breakdown of muscle tissue and is usually excreted from the body through the kidneys. When kidneys are functioning properly, the level of creatinine in the bloodstream remains stable.

This range can vary slightly based on individual factors such as age, sex, muscle mass, and lab reference values, but the 0.7 to 1.4 mg/dL range is widely recognized in clinical practice as the standard for healthy adults. Values above this range can indicate impaired kidney function, while values below are usually considered normal, but could also suggest low muscle mass or problems with creatinine production. Therefore, understanding the normal range for creatinine is crucial for assessing renal function and identifying possible renal conditions.