Creatinine

Creatinine - A waste product in the blood that is filtered by the kidneys and eliminated in urine. Creatinine is released by the muscles during activity and is also a byproduct of protein in the diet. A measure of creatinine levels, with a urine or blood (serum) test, can help monitor kidney function. If the kidneys become damaged, creatinine may build up in the blood. Thus, elevated creatinine levels are likely a sign that the kidneys aren't functioning properly.

Individuals with high creatinine levels should be cautious when evaluating chemotherapy as a cancer treatment option. Certain chemotherapy drugs can cause varying degrees of damage to the kidneys, or reduce the ability of the kidneys to properly filter creatinine from the bloodstream.

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