Creatinine is the result of the metabolism of complex energy carrier molecules. These molecules are formed in the liver and are carried to all cells, supplying the latter with the energy necessary for vital activity. Energy is released after the breaking of special chemical bonds, with the formation of decay products that return to the blood. One part of them is reused in the synthesis of new energy carriers, and the other part is utilized by the excretory system as compounds alien to the body. Among them is creatinine. It is always present in the blood, which indicates a normal metabolism.
Energy metabolism is most active in muscle tissue (especially during physical exertion), nerve cells (during mental exertion) and in the gastrointestinal tract (after eating). The indicator is different for the opposite sexes, since it is believed that a man has more developed muscles, work is harder, metabolic processes are more active.
Norm:
For men - 74-110 μmol / l;
For women - 44-80;
Children under 14 years old - 27-62;
Children under 12 months - 18-35.
If the excretion is not disturbed, all the "excess" creatinine is successfully utilized in the urine. Otherwise, when the kidneys cannot cope with the load and are unable to filter it, the concentration increases. Pathology of the urinary system is the most common cause of increased CREA.
However, the excess of the norm also happens with its enhanced formation, despite the preserved excretory function in the case of:
Muscle damage (trauma, burns, inflammation);
Intoxication;
Metabolic disorders (thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus);
Massive blood loss;
Autoimmune processes;
Diseases of the hepato-biliary.
The decrease is somewhat less common and is typical for situations not associated with any pathology:
Decreased protein in the diet (diet, fasting);
Dystrophy, atrophy, cachexia;
First three months of pregnancy.
A change in normal values is not always a sign of the presence of a disease. For example, this indicator may increase after heavy physical or strenuous mental work, a plentiful meat diet, and the consumption of large amounts of alcohol. To rule out such false positives:
Determine strictly on an empty stomach;
Reduce the consumption of meat the day before;
Eliminate alcohol and intense work during the day.
A study of the creatinine level is mandatory in the event of any symptoms associated with renal dysfunction (edema, discomfort in the lower back, changes in urine), liver (discomfort in the right hypochondrium, bitterness in the mouth), unmotivated muscle pain. If you have any doubts, you should consult a doctor who can clearly identify the indications for the CREA analysis.
