Creatinine 6.2 mg/dl means : causes, treatment, GFR calculation
In this article we discuss what a creatinine value of 6.2 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 6.2 is dangerous, good or bad.Published Date : 2023-07-10T00:31:57.337Z
Updated Date : 2024-04-11T19:29:33.524+05:30
Table of Contents
What is Creatinine?
How is creatinine measured?
What does a creatinine of 6.2 mg/dl mean in men?
What does a creatinine of 6.2 mg/dl mean in women?
Is creatinine 6.2 dangerous?
What is the normal range and is a creatinine of 6.2 mg/dl normal?
What could cause a creatinine level of 6.2?
What other tests should be done if creatinine level is 6.2?
What is the relation between creatinine and kidney function?
Why do doctors ask for GFR if my creatinine level is 6.2?
What is my GFR if my creatinine level is 6.2?
References
Recommended Tests
What is Creatinine?
Serum creatinine is a substance that is naturally produced in our bodies as a result of a chemical reaction involving creatine phosphate, which is found in our muscles. This reaction happens at a steady pace, meaning that our bodies consistently produce serum creatinine. The amount of serum creatinine in our blood is influenced by our muscle mass - the more muscles we have, the higher the levels of serum creatinine. Additionally, it's important to note that men generally have higher levels of serum creatinine compared to women, and during pregnancy, the levels tend to be lower.1
How is creatinine measured?
A serum creatinine lab test is a simple blood test that helps doctors measure the level of creatinine in your body. Before the test, you may need to avoid certain medications or foods, as they can affect the results. During the test, a healthcare professional will gently insert a small needle into your vein and collect a sample of your blood. This blood sample is then sent to a lab, where special machines measure the amount of creatinine in the sample. The results of the test can give your doctor important information about how well your kidneys are functioning.
What does a creatinine of 6.2 mg/dl mean in women?
The normal range for creatinine in women is 0.55-1.02. If your creatinine level is 6.2 mg/dl, it is considered very dangerous. It is strongly advised that you go to the hospital right away and you may need dialysis. It is important not to try to treat yourself.3,4
Is creatinine 6.2 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 6.2 in male across different ages
| Age Group | Is Creatinne of 6.2 dangerous? |
|---|---|
| 25yrs - 95 yrs | very dangerous, Get immediate medical advice and treatment. |
Table of danger posed by Creatinine 6.2 in female across different ages
| Age Group | Is Creatinne of 6.2 dangerous? |
|---|---|
| 25yrs - 95 yrs | very dangerous, Get immediate medical advice and treatment. |
What is the normal range and is a creatinine of 6.2 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 6.2 is considered abnormal.
What could cause a creatinine level of 6.2?
If the creatinine value is above 1.02, here is a list of 10 potential causes for this level:
- Acute kidney injury: Sudden loss of kidney function, often caused by dehydration, medication side effects, or decreased blood flow to the kidneys.
- Chronic kidney disease: Long-term damage to the kidneys, typically resulting from conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or glomerulonephritis.
- Urinary tract obstruction: Blockage in the urinary system, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, preventing normal urine flow and increasing creatinine levels.
- Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake leading to reduced urine production and concentration of waste products like creatinine.
- Rhabdomyolysis: Breakdown of muscle tissue due to injury, causing the release of myoglobin into the bloodstream, which can harm the kidneys and elevate creatinine.
- Excessive protein intake: Consuming large amounts of protein can burden the kidneys and result in elevated creatinine levels.
- Certain medications: Some drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or certain antibiotics, can affect renal function and increase creatinine.
- Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function and elevated creatinine.
- Acromegaly: A hormonal disorder causing abnormal growth, which can lead to kidney problems and higher creatinine levels.
- Polycystic kidney disease: Inherited condition characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys, gradually impairing their function and increasing creatinine levels.
However, if the creatinine value is below 1.02, it is within the normal limits, and no list of causes will be provided. Please note that pregnancy has not been included in the causes list.
What other tests should be done if creatinine level is 6.2?
Serum Electrolytes
The Serum Electrolytes test is important because it measures the levels of important electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride in the blood. This test helps in assessing the patient's kidney function, as high levels of creatinine can indicate kidney damage or dysfunction. Abnormal electrolyte levels can also lead to various health issues like dehydration, muscle weakness, and irregular heartbeats.
Blood Urea
The Blood Urea test is important because it measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood, which is a waste product of protein metabolism. A high level of urea in the blood indicates impaired kidney function and can help diagnose conditions such as kidney disease or damage. In conjunction with the creatinine test, the Blood Urea test provides valuable information about kidney health.
Estimated GFR
The Estimated GFR (glomerular filtration rate) test is important because it provides an estimation of kidney function by measuring how well the kidneys are filtering waste products from the blood. A creatinine level of 6.2 mg/dl suggests a significant impairment in kidney function, but the Estimated GFR test can help determine the severity of the impairment and guide treatment decisions.
HBA1C
The HbA1c test is important in this case as it measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, providing information on long-term glucose control. This test helps in assessing the risk and management of diabetes, which can be a contributing factor to elevated creatinine levels. Monitoring HbA1c levels can assist in determining the effectiveness of treatment plans and identifying potential complications.
LDH
The LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) test is important in this case because it helps differentiate between different causes of elevated creatinine levels. High LDH levels could suggest muscle breakdown or rhabdomyolysis as the cause of the elevated creatinine, which would require specific management. This information can aid in determining the appropriate treatment plan for the patient.
Random Sugar
The Random Sugar test is important in this case because it helps determine if the high creatinine level is due to uncontrolled diabetes. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to kidney damage, causing an increase in creatinine levels. Identifying and managing diabetes is crucial in preventing further renal complications.
What is the relation between creatinine and kidney function?
Creatinine, a chemical synthesized consistently within the body, undergoes complete filtration in the urine by the kidneys. When the functionality of the kidneys is compromised for various reasons, creatinine levels experience an increase. Consequently, creatinine serves as an invaluable means to assess renal function.
Why do doctors ask for GFR if my creatinine level is 6.2?
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 6.2?
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) for a creatinine value of 6.2
| Age in Years | Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) | GFR Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 18 yrs | Male : 11.85 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.79 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 19 yrs | Male : 11.72 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 20 yrs | Male : 11.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 21 yrs | Male : 11.49 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.52 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 22 yrs | Male : 11.38 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.44 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 23 yrs | Male : 11.28 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 24 yrs | Male : 11.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 25 yrs | Male : 11.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.23 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 26 yrs | Male : 11.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.16 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 27 yrs | Male : 10.92 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 28 yrs | Male : 10.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 8.04 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 29 yrs | Male : 10.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.98 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 30 yrs | Male : 10.68 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 31 yrs | Male : 10.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.88 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 32 yrs | Male : 10.55 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.82 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 33 yrs | Male : 10.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 34 yrs | Male : 10.42 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 35 yrs | Male : 10.36 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.68 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 36 yrs | Male : 10.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.64 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 37 yrs | Male : 10.24 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 38 yrs | Male : 10.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.56 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 39 yrs | Male : 10.13 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.52 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 40 yrs | Male : 10.08 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 41 yrs | Male : 10.03 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.44 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 42 yrs | Male : 9.98 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 43 yrs | Male : 9.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 44 yrs | Male : 9.89 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 45 yrs | Male : 9.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 46 yrs | Male : 9.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.27 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 47 yrs | Male : 9.75 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.24 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 48 yrs | Male : 9.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.21 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 49 yrs | Male : 9.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.18 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 50 yrs | Male : 9.63 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.15 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 51 yrs | Male : 9.59 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.12 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 52 yrs | Male : 9.56 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.09 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 53 yrs | Male : 9.52 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.06 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 54 yrs | Male : 9.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.04 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 55 yrs | Male : 9.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 7.01 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 56 yrs | Male : 9.41 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.98 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 57 yrs | Male : 9.38 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.96 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 58 yrs | Male : 9.35 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.93 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 59 yrs | Male : 9.31 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.91 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 60 yrs | Male : 9.28 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.89 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 61 yrs | Male : 9.25 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.86 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 62 yrs | Male : 9.22 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 63 yrs | Male : 9.19 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.82 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 64 yrs | Male : 9.16 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 65 yrs | Male : 9.13 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 66 yrs | Male : 9.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 67 yrs | Male : 9.08 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 68 yrs | Male : 9.05 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 69 yrs | Male : 9.02 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.69 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 70 yrs | Male : 9.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.68 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 71 yrs | Male : 8.97 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.66 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 72 yrs | Male : 8.94 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.64 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 73 yrs | Male : 8.92 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.62 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 74 yrs | Male : 8.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 75 yrs | Male : 8.87 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.58 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 76 yrs | Male : 8.85 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.56 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 77 yrs | Male : 8.82 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.55 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 78 yrs | Male : 8.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.53 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 79 yrs | Male : 8.78 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.51 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 80 yrs | Male : 8.76 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 81 yrs | Male : 8.73 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.48 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 82 yrs | Male : 8.71 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.46 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 83 yrs | Male : 8.69 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.45 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 84 yrs | Male : 8.67 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.43 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 85 yrs | Male : 8.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.42 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 86 yrs | Male : 8.63 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 87 yrs | Male : 8.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.39 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 88 yrs | Male : 8.59 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.37 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 89 yrs | Male : 8.57 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.36 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 90 yrs | Male : 8.55 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 91 yrs | Male : 8.53 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.33 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 92 yrs | Male : 8.51 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.31 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 93 yrs | Male : 8.49 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 94 yrs | Male : 8.47 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.29 mL/min/1.73 m2 | GFR Grade G5 : Kidney Failure |
| 95 yrs | Male : 8.46 mL/min/1.73 m2 Female : 6.27 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 6.2
HBA1C
Visit HBA1C Test to know more
Electrolytes
Visit Electrolytes to know more
Kidney Profile
Visit Kidney Profile to know more
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Dr.Bhargav Raut is a qualified Pathologist, with over 5 years of experience in the field
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