Mendenhall Buttgereit*

ABSTRACT

Creatinine remains one of the most frequently utilized biomarkers for evaluating renal function in both clinical practice and research. Despite its widespread acceptance, interpretation of serum creatinine requires an understanding of the physiological processes governing its production, distribution, and elimination, as well as the numerous biological and analytical factors that influence its concentration. Variations in age, sex, muscle mass, dietary intake, medications, and laboratory methodologies can significantly affect creatinine values, potentially limiting its accuracy as a standalone indicator of kidney function. Consequently, clinicians must consider these variables when assessing renal status and monitoring disease progression.