Creatinine is a waste product measured in blood; eGFR is an estimate calculated from creatinine and other information. UK reports commonly show creatinine in µmol/L and eGFR in mL/min/1.73m², but the laboratory's own units and reference information come first.
This page is a short bridge to the consolidated guide. It keeps the older creatinine URL useful while the main explanation now lives at the eGFR page.
Read the kidney results as a set
| Creatinine | Use the printed µmol/L value and interval | Affected by muscle mass, hydration, diet, exercise and some medicines |
|---|---|---|
| eGFR | Use the reported estimate and trend | It is an estimate, not a percentage of kidney function |
| Urine ACR / other findings | Use the printed result and interval | Urine findings and blood pressure may add important context |
A single creatinine or eGFR result does not establish chronic kidney disease. Read the full report and seek clinical interpretation.
Why the two results belong together
A change in creatinine can move eGFR in the opposite direction, but the relationship is not a diagnosis. Clinicians consider previous results, urine findings, blood pressure, medicines, acute illness and the person's usual baseline.
Use the consolidated guide
For the full UK explanation of eGFR bands, persistence, ACR and factors that can make estimates less reliable, continue to the consolidated eGFR and creatinine guide.
When to contact your healthcare team
- Follow any critical or urgent wording on the report and contact the responsible clinical team.
- Seek appropriate urgent care for severe or worsening symptoms such as markedly reduced urination, severe breathlessness, confusion or collapse.
- For a non-urgent flagged result, bring the complete report and previous results to the ordering clinician.
Common questions
Is creatinine the same as eGFR?
No. Creatinine is a measured blood result. eGFR is an estimate calculated from creatinine and other information. They are usually interpreted together.
Related guides
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Lafia organises the values, units and reference intervals shown on your report. Educational only; not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. AI-generated interpretations are not reviewed by a physician or human clinician and do not replace a clinician, laboratory, or original report. Do not use this content for emergencies; consult a qualified healthcare professional. Do not post personal laboratory results publicly.
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Medical disclaimer: Educational only; not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. AI-generated interpretations are not reviewed by a physician or human clinician. Do not use this content for emergencies; consult a qualified healthcare professional. Do not post personal laboratory results publicly. Reference intervals vary between laboratories—use the value, unit, date and range printed on your own report, and consult a qualified healthcare professional about your results and symptoms.