Creatinine 5.9 mg/dl means : causes, treatment, GFR calculation
In this article we discuss what a creatinine value of 5.9 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 5.9 is dangerous, good or bad.Published Date : 2023-07-10T00:31:57.337Z
Updated Date : 2024-04-11T19:29:33.432+05:30
Table of Contents
What is Creatinine?
How is creatinine measured?
What does a creatinine of 5.9 mg/dl mean in men?
What does a creatinine of 5.9 mg/dl mean in women?
Is creatinine 5.9 dangerous?
What is the normal range and is a creatinine of 5.9 mg/dl normal?
What could cause a creatinine level of 5.9?
What other tests should be done if creatinine level is 5.9?
What is the relation between creatinine and kidney function?
Why do doctors ask for GFR if my creatinine level is 5.9?
What is my GFR if my creatinine level is 5.9?
References
Recommended Tests
What is Creatinine?
Serum creatinine is a substance that is naturally produced in our body as a result of the breakdown of creatine phosphate in our muscles. It is made at a steady rate, meaning our body consistently produces it. The levels of serum creatinine in our blood depend on how much muscle we have. Generally, men tend to have higher levels compared to women, while the levels are lower during pregnancy. So, this substance helps us understand how our muscles are functioning and can vary based on factors like gender and pregnancy.1
How is creatinine measured?
A serum creatinine lab test is a simple blood test that helps measure the level of creatinine in your body. Before the test, you may be asked to avoid eating certain foods or taking certain medications that could affect the results. When you go to the lab, a healthcare professional will gently insert a small needle into your arm to draw a small amount of blood. This blood sample will then be sent to the lab, where they will use a special machine to measure the concentration of creatinine in your blood.
What does a creatinine of 5.9 mg/dl mean in men?
The normal range for creatinine in women is between 0.73 and 1.18. If your creatinine level is 5.9 mg/dl, it is considered very dangerous. It is highly recommended that you go to the hospital right away for immediate treatment, which may include dialysis. Avoid trying to treat yourself and seek medical help as soon as possible.3,4
What does a creatinine of 5.9 mg/dl mean in women?
The normal range for creatinine in women is between 0.55 and 1.02. A creatinine value of 5.9 mg/dl is considered very dangerous. It is recommended that you go to the hospital right away and you may need dialysis. Please do not try to treat yourself.3,4
Is creatinine 5.9 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 5.9 in male across different ages
| Age Group | Is Creatinne of 5.9 dangerous? |
|---|---|
| 25yrs - 95 yrs | very dangerous, Get immediate medical advice and treatment. |
Table of danger posed by Creatinine 5.9 in female across different ages
| Age Group | Is Creatinne of 5.9 dangerous? |
|---|---|
| 25yrs - 95 yrs | very dangerous, Get immediate medical advice and treatment. |
What is the normal range and is a creatinine of 5.9 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 5.9 is considered abnormal.
What could cause a creatinine level of 5.9?
- Acute kidney injury: A sudden decrease in kidney function, often caused by dehydration, infection, or medication.
- Chronic kidney disease: Long-term damage to the kidneys, usually caused by conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Urinary tract obstruction: Blockage in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, preventing normal urine flow.
- Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the tiny filters in the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function.
- Nephrotic syndrome: A condition characterized by excessive protein loss in the urine, which can damage the kidneys.
- Rhabdomyolysis: Breakdown of muscle tissue releases toxins that can damage the kidneys when they are not properly eliminated.
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome: A rare condition usually caused by bacterial infection, leading to the destruction of red blood cells and kidney failure.
- Tubulointerstitial nephritis: Inflammation of the kidney tubules and surrounding structures, often due to medications or autoimmune disorders.
- Polycystic kidney disease: Inherited disorder causing the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys, leading to progressive renal damage.
- Renal artery stenosis: Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys, resulting in reduced kidney function.
What other tests should be done if creatinine level is 5.9?
Serum Electrolytes
The Serum Electrolytes test is important because it helps determine the balance of important minerals in the body, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride. In the case of a high creatinine level of 5.9 mg/dl, the test can help identify any electrolyte imbalances that may be contributing to kidney dysfunction or other underlying health conditions. Monitoring electrolyte levels is crucial for maintaining proper bodily functions and overall health.
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 protein is metabolized. A high creatinine level can indicate kidney dysfunction, and the blood urea test helps to confirm this by assessing the kidney's ability to filter waste products like urea. Therefore, the blood urea test is crucial in determining the overall kidney function and diagnosing any potential kidney problems.
Estimated GFR
The estimated GFR (glomerular filtration rate) test is important because it provides an estimate of how well the kidneys are functioning by measuring the rate at which waste products, like creatinine, are filtered out of the blood. A creatinine level of 5.9 mg/dl indicates severe kidney dysfunction, and the estimated GFR test can help determine the stage of kidney disease and guide treatment decisions. Monitoring the estimated GFR over time is crucial in assessing the progression of kidney disease and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.
HBA1C
The HbA1c test is important in this case because it measures the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, providing information on long-term glucose control. It helps diagnose and monitor diabetes, as persistently elevated blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys and lead to kidney disease. Therefore, combining the creatinine level with the HbA1c test result can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's kidney health and diabetes management.
LDH
The LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) test is important in this scenario as it helps determine the cause of the elevated creatinine level. LDH levels can be elevated in conditions such as kidney damage or muscle breakdown, which could be contributing to the high creatinine level. By identifying the underlying cause, appropriate treatment can be initiated.
Random Sugar
The Random Sugar test is important in this case because it helps to assess the patient's blood glucose levels at any given time, regardless of fasting status. High creatinine levels can indicate kidney dysfunction, which can affect the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Therefore, the Random Sugar test can provide valuable information about the patient's glycemic control and help guide treatment decisions.
What is the relation between creatinine and kidney function?
Creatinine, a chemical naturally synthesized within the body, remains consistently generated. The kidney, functioning as a remarkable filtration system, thoroughly eliminates creatinine through urine. However, when the kidney's efficiency becomes compromised for any given cause, the levels of creatinine escalate. Consequently, creatinine serves as an exceedingly valuable means of evaluating kidney function.
Why do doctors ask for GFR if my creatinine level is 5.9?
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 5.9?
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) for a creatinine value of 5.9
| Age in Years | Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) | GFR Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 18 yrs | Male : 12.55 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 9.31 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 19 yrs | Male : 12.41 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 9.21 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 20 yrs | Male : 12.28 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 9.12 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 21 yrs | Male : 12.16 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 9.03 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 22 yrs | Male : 12.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.94 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 23 yrs | Male : 11.94 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.86 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 24 yrs | Male : 11.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 25 yrs | Male : 11.74 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 26 yrs | Male : 11.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.64 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 27 yrs | Male : 11.56 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.58 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 28 yrs | Male : 11.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.51 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 29 yrs | Male : 11.39 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 30 yrs | Male : 11.31 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 31 yrs | Male : 11.24 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 32 yrs | Male : 11.17 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.29 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 33 yrs | Male : 11.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.23 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 34 yrs | Male : 11.03 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 35 yrs | Male : 10.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.14 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 36 yrs | Male : 10.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 37 yrs | Male : 10.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 38 yrs | Male : 10.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 39 yrs | Male : 10.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.96 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 40 yrs | Male : 10.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.92 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 41 yrs | Male : 10.62 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.88 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 42 yrs | Male : 10.57 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 43 yrs | Male : 10.52 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 44 yrs | Male : 10.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.77 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 45 yrs | Male : 10.42 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 46 yrs | Male : 10.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 47 yrs | Male : 10.33 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.66 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 48 yrs | Male : 10.28 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.63 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 49 yrs | Male : 10.24 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 50 yrs | Male : 10.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.57 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 51 yrs | Male : 10.16 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.54 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 52 yrs | Male : 10.12 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.51 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 53 yrs | Male : 10.08 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 54 yrs | Male : 10.04 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 55 yrs | Male : 10.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.42 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 56 yrs | Male : 9.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 57 yrs | Male : 9.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 58 yrs | Male : 9.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 59 yrs | Male : 9.86 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.32 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 60 yrs | Male : 9.83 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.29 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 61 yrs | Male : 9.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.27 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 62 yrs | Male : 9.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.24 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 63 yrs | Male : 9.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.22 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 64 yrs | Male : 9.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 65 yrs | Male : 9.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 66 yrs | Male : 9.64 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.15 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 67 yrs | Male : 9.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.13 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 68 yrs | Male : 9.58 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.11 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 69 yrs | Male : 9.55 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 70 yrs | Male : 9.53 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.07 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 71 yrs | Male : 9.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 72 yrs | Male : 9.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.03 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 73 yrs | Male : 9.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.01 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 74 yrs | Male : 9.42 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.99 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 75 yrs | Male : 9.39 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 76 yrs | Male : 9.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.95 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 77 yrs | Male : 9.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 78 yrs | Male : 9.32 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.91 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 79 yrs | Male : 9.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 80 yrs | Male : 9.27 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.88 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 81 yrs | Male : 9.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.86 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 82 yrs | Male : 9.23 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.85 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 83 yrs | Male : 9.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.83 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 84 yrs | Male : 9.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.81 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 85 yrs | Male : 9.16 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 86 yrs | Male : 9.14 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 87 yrs | Male : 9.11 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 88 yrs | Male : 9.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.75 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 89 yrs | Male : 9.07 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 90 yrs | Male : 9.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.72 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 91 yrs | Male : 9.03 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 92 yrs | Male : 9.01 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.69 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 93 yrs | Male : 8.99 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 94 yrs | Male : 8.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.66 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 95 yrs | Male : 8.95 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.64 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
References
Authorotative articles on serum creatinine
Recommended Tests
The following tests are recommeded as additional investigations for a creatinine of 5.9
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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