Creatinine 2.6 mg/dl means : causes, treatment, GFR calculation
In this article we discuss what a creatinine value of 2.6 mg /dl means, what are its causes and how to calculate your estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate based on the GFR, as well its implications on your kidney health. We also answer the question about whether a Creatinine level of 2.6 is dangerous, good or bad.Published Date : 2023-07-03T00:31:57.337Z
Updated Date : 2024-04-11T19:29:32.393+05:30
Table of Contents
What is Creatinine?
How is creatinine measured?
What does a creatinine of 2.6 mg/dl mean in men?
What does a creatinine of 2.6 mg/dl mean in women?
Is creatinine 2.6 dangerous?
What is the normal range and is a creatinine of 2.6 mg/dl normal?
What could cause a creatinine level of 2.6?
What other tests should be done if creatinine level is 2.6?
What is the relation between creatinine and kidney function?
Why do doctors ask for GFR if my creatinine level is 2.6?
What is my GFR if my creatinine level is 2.6?
References
Recommended Tests
What is Creatinine?
Serum creatinine is a natural substance made by our bodies as a result of something called creatine phosphate in our muscles. It is produced at a steady pace, meaning it remains fairly constant over time. The amount of serum creatinine in our blood is influenced by the amount of muscle we have - so people with more muscle tend to have higher levels. Interestingly, men generally have higher levels than women, while pregnant women have lower levels. This information helps doctors measure and understand how well our kidneys are functioning.1
How is creatinine measured?
A serum creatinine lab test is a simple procedure that helps doctors check how well the kidneys are functioning. Before the test, it is important to inform the doctor about any medications or supplements being taken, as some can affect the test results. On the day of the test, a small sample of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm, using a needle. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where the creatinine concentration is measured using specialized equipment. The results of this test can provide valuable information about kidney health and help guide further treatment if necessary.
What does a creatinine of 2.6 mg/dl mean in men?
The normal range for creatinine in women is 0.73-1.18. If the creatinine value is 2.6 mg/dl, it is considered moderate. It is recommended to immediately consult a doctor, especially a kidney specialist called a nephrologist. It is important to review any new medications you have started, as they may be causing the increase in creatinine. Treatment with immunosuppressive medications like steroids may be necessary. It may also be necessary to receive fluids through an IV to ensure you are well hydrated. Other possible causes of the high creatinine levels could be advanced kidney damage from diabetes or high blood pressure.3,4
What does a creatinine of 2.6 mg/dl mean in women?
The normal range for creatinine in women is 0.55-1.02. If the creatinine value is 2.6 mg/dl, it is considered moderate. In this case, it is recommended to see a doctor right away. A specialist called a nephrologist should be consulted. It is important to review any new medications you are taking as they may be causing the increase in creatinine. Treatment may involve taking immunosuppressive medications like steroids. You may also need to receive fluids through an IV to make sure you are well hydrated. Other possible causes of the elevated creatinine could be advanced kidney damage from diabetes or high blood pressure.3,4
Is creatinine 2.6 dangerous?
A creatinine of may be dangerous depending on your gender and age. The tables below highlight the likelihood of a creatinine of being dangerous for different age groups in both men and women. We provide the following tables, based on the estimated GFR corresponding to the value of creatinine.
Table of danger posed by Creatinine 2.6 in male across different ages
| Age Group | Is Creatinne of 2.6 dangerous? |
|---|---|
| 25yrs - 26 yrs | bad, needs attention, could be dangerous, Consult a doctor |
| 26yrs - 95 yrs | very high - dangerous, Consult a doctor immediately |
Table of danger posed by Creatinine 2.6 in female across different ages
| Age Group | Is Creatinne of 2.6 dangerous? |
|---|---|
| 25yrs - 95 yrs | very high - dangerous, Consult a doctor immediately |
What is the normal range and is a creatinine of 2.6 mg/dl normal?
The normal range for creatinine in men is 0.73 to 1.18 mg/dl, and in women it is 0.55 to 1.02 mg/dl2. Based on these ranges, a creatinine level of 2.6 is considered abnormal.
What could cause a creatinine level of 2.6?
- Acute kidney injury: Sudden decrease in kidney function due to various reasons such as dehydration, blood loss, or medication side effects.
- Chronic kidney disease: Progressive and long-term damage to the kidneys, often caused by conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Urinary tract obstruction: Blockage in the urinary system that prevents the normal flow of urine and can lead to increased creatinine levels.
- Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys, which can impair their function.
- Polycystic kidney disease: Inherited disorder characterized by the growth of cysts in the kidneys, gradually affecting their ability to filter waste products.
- Medication-induced nephrotoxicity: Certain medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics, can cause kidney damage and elevated creatinine levels.
- Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake or excessive fluid loss can lead to reduced blood flow to the kidneys and impaired kidney function.
- Rhabdomyolysis: Severe muscle injury or breakdown that releases myoglobin into the bloodstream, potentially damaging the kidneys.
- Severe infection: Serious infections, such as sepsis or urinary tract infections, can cause kidney damage and result in elevated creatinine levels.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus or vasculitis can cause inflammation in the kidneys and affect their ability to filter waste.
What other tests should be done if creatinine level is 2.6?
Serum Electrolytes
The Serum Electrolytes test is important because it helps evaluate the balance of important minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride in the body, which can be affected by kidney function. In this case, a creatinine level of 2.6 mg/dl indicates potential kidney dysfunction, and the Serum Electrolytes test can provide additional information on the overall electrolyte status and help guide further treatment decisions. Monitoring electrolyte levels is crucial for maintaining proper bodily functions and preventing complications.
Blood Urea
The Blood Urea test is important because it measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood, which is a waste product formed when proteins are broken down. An elevated level of blood urea suggests impaired kidney function, as the kidneys are responsible for filtering and excreting urea. Therefore, in the case of a high creatinine level, the Blood Urea test helps confirm kidney dysfunction.
Estimated GFR
The Estimated GFR (glomerular filtration rate) test is important because it helps assess the kidney function by estimating how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. A creatinine level of 2.6 mg/dl suggests impaired kidney function, but the Estimated GFR test provides a more accurate and comprehensive evaluation of kidney health, aiding in the diagnosis and management of kidney diseases. It is a crucial tool in determining the appropriate treatment and monitoring the progression of kidney dysfunction.
HBA1C
The HbA1c test is important in this case as it measures the average blood glucose levels over a period of 2-3 months, providing information on long-term glycemic control. This is important because high blood glucose levels can lead to kidney damage, resulting in increased creatinine levels. Monitoring HbA1c levels can help assess the risk and progression of kidney disease in individuals with diabetes.
LDH
The LDH test is important for assessing kidney function because it helps differentiate between prerenal and intrinsic renal causes of elevated creatinine levels. Elevated LDH levels may suggest acute tubular injury or glomerulonephritis, indicating intrinsic renal damage. This information is crucial for determining the appropriate management and treatment options for the patient.
Random Sugar
The Random Sugar test is important in this case because it helps determine the blood sugar level at any given time, which is crucial in evaluating the patient's overall kidney function. Elevated creatinine levels can indicate kidney damage, and high blood sugar levels can exacerbate this damage. Therefore, the Random Sugar test helps assess the patient's risk of developing or worsening kidney disease.
What is the relation between creatinine and kidney function?
Creatinine, a substance manufactured within our bodies at a consistent pace, undergoes complete extraction by the kidneys during the urinary process. However, if the kidneys' efficiency diminishes due to various factors, creatinine levels experience an upsurge. Hence, creatinine serves as an exceedingly beneficial tool for assessing kidney functionality.
Why do doctors ask for GFR if my creatinine level is 2.6?
Glomerular Filtration Rate or GFR is the rate at which a given volume of blood is cleared of any substance every unit of time. This basically is a measure of the filtration capacity of the kidney. Even a small reduction in GFR can have consequences in patients who already have comorbidities. The GFR is calculated from the level of creatinine in the blood using a variety of equations like the MDRD equation given as follows : GFR (mL/min/1.73 m2) = 175 × (Scr)-1.154 × (Age)-0.203 × (0.742 if female) × (1.212 if African American). Using this formula the value of GFR can be calculated just by knowing the level of creatinine in the blood.
What is my GFR if my creatinine level is 2.6?
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) for a creatinine value of 2.6
| Age in Years | Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) | GFR Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 18 yrs | Male : 32.31 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 23.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 19 yrs | Male : 31.96 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 23.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 20 yrs | Male : 31.63 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 23.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 21 yrs | Male : 31.31 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 23.24 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 22 yrs | Male : 31.02 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 23.02 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 23 yrs | Male : 30.74 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 22.81 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 24 yrs | Male : 30.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 22.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 25 yrs | Male : 30.23 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 22.43 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 26 yrs | Male : 29.99 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 22.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 27 yrs | Male : 29.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 22.08 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 28 yrs | Male : 29.54 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.92 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 29 yrs | Male : 29.33 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 30 yrs | Male : 29.13 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 31 yrs | Male : 28.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 32 yrs | Male : 28.75 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.33 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 33 yrs | Male : 28.57 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 34 yrs | Male : 28.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 21.07 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 35 yrs | Male : 28.23 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.95 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 36 yrs | Male : 28.07 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.83 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 37 yrs | Male : 27.91 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 38 yrs | Male : 27.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 39 yrs | Male : 27.62 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.49 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 40 yrs | Male : 27.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.39 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 41 yrs | Male : 27.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.28 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 42 yrs | Male : 27.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.19 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 43 yrs | Male : 27.07 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 44 yrs | Male : 26.95 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 20.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 45 yrs | Male : 26.83 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 46 yrs | Male : 26.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.82 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 47 yrs | Male : 26.59 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 48 yrs | Male : 26.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 49 yrs | Male : 26.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.56 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 50 yrs | Male : 26.26 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 51 yrs | Male : 26.15 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.41 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 52 yrs | Male : 26.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.33 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 53 yrs | Male : 25.95 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 54 yrs | Male : 25.85 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 55 yrs | Male : 25.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.11 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 56 yrs | Male : 25.66 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 19.04 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 57 yrs | Male : 25.57 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 58 yrs | Male : 25.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.91 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 59 yrs | Male : 25.39 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 60 yrs | Male : 25.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 61 yrs | Male : 25.22 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 62 yrs | Male : 25.14 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 63 yrs | Male : 25.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.59 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 64 yrs | Male : 24.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.53 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 65 yrs | Male : 24.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 66 yrs | Male : 24.82 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.42 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 67 yrs | Male : 24.74 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.36 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 68 yrs | Male : 24.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 69 yrs | Male : 24.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 70 yrs | Male : 24.52 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 71 yrs | Male : 24.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.15 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 72 yrs | Male : 24.38 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 73 yrs | Male : 24.32 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 18.04 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 74 yrs | Male : 24.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.99 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 75 yrs | Male : 24.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.94 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 76 yrs | Male : 24.12 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 77 yrs | Male : 24.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.85 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 78 yrs | Male : 23.99 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 79 yrs | Male : 23.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 80 yrs | Male : 23.87 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 81 yrs | Male : 23.81 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 82 yrs | Male : 23.75 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.62 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 83 yrs | Male : 23.69 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.58 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 84 yrs | Male : 23.63 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.54 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 85 yrs | Male : 23.58 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.49 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 86 yrs | Male : 23.52 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 87 yrs | Male : 23.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.41 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 88 yrs | Male : 23.41 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 89 yrs | Male : 23.36 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.33 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 90 yrs | Male : 23.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.29 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 91 yrs | Male : 23.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 92 yrs | Male : 23.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.22 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 93 yrs | Male : 23.15 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 94 yrs | Male : 23.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.14 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
| 95 yrs | Male : 23.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 17.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G4 : Severely Decreased |
References
Authorotative articles on serum creatinine
Recommended Tests
The following tests are recommeded as additional investigations for a creatinine of 2.6
HBA1C
Visit HBA1C Test to know more
Electrolytes
Visit Electrolytes to know more
Kidney Profile
Visit Kidney Profile to know more
Reviewed By - Dr.Bhargav Raut
Dr.Bhargav Raut is a qualified Pathologist, with over 5 years of experience in the field
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