creatinine

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Definition - What does creatinine mean?

Creatinine is a protein waste product that is generated by muscle metabolism and later disposed by the kidneys. Creatinine is closely related with muscle mass and kidney function since it is disposed of at a constant rate. Levels of creatinine can determine different health conditions including muscle injury or impaired kidney functions. In the context of occupational health and safety, testing for creatinine levels will determine the general health of employees in a determined worksite.

SureHire explains creatinine

High levels of creatinine are closely related to muscle injury and kidney malfunction. Other conditions that can be indicated include diabetic nephropathy, preeclampsia, eclampsia, glomerulonephritis, or rhabdomyolysis. Low levels of creatinine can indicated health conditions related with reduced muscle mass (e.g. muscular dystrophy in its later stages) or with myasthenia gravis. Generally, low levels of creatinine are not unusual and are not a grave cause for concern.

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