How accurate is a creatinine test for assessing kidney function?

The creatinine test is a reliable indicator of kidney function and is widely used to diagnose and monitor kidney diseases. However, certain factors like muscle mass, dehydration, or medications can influence creatinine levels. For a more comprehensive assessment, doctors may use additional tests like creatinine clearance or glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to evaluate how well your kidneys are functioning. These tests help provide a clearer picture of your kidney health, particularly when creatinine levels are borderline or abnormal.