Understanding Creatinine Normal Range by Age
Creatinine is a waste product produced by the muscles during their normal metabolism. It is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted in urine. Measuring creatinine levels in the blood is an important diagnostic tool to assess kidney function. However, it is essential to understand that the normal range of creatinine can vary depending on a person’s age.
The normal range of creatinine in the blood is typically between 0.6 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for adult males and females. However, this range can differ for children and the elderly.
In infants, the normal range of creatinine is lower, ranging from 0.2 to 0.4 mg/dL.
For children aged 1 to 18 years, the normal range of creatinine gradually increases. It is important to note that the normal range can vary slightly depending on the laboratory’s reference values. Generally, for children, the normal range falls between 0.3 to 0.7 mg/dL.
As individuals age, their muscle mass tends to decrease, resulting in lower creatinine production. For adults over the age of 60, the normal range of creatinine may be slightly lower, ranging from 0.6 to 1.1 mg/dL.
Understanding the normal range of creatinine by age is crucial for accurate interpretation of kidney function tests.