From the Research
A creatinine level of 58 umol/L in a 4-year-old male is within the normal range and does not require any intervention. Normal creatinine values for children this age typically range from 21-65 umol/L, with slight variations depending on the specific laboratory reference ranges 1. This value indicates that the child's kidneys are functioning properly in filtering waste products from the blood. Creatinine is a breakdown product of muscle metabolism that is excreted by the kidneys, and its blood levels serve as a marker of kidney function. It's essential to note that creatinine levels in children are naturally lower than in adults due to their smaller muscle mass.
Key Considerations
- If this value was obtained as part of routine screening, no further action is needed.
- However, if the child has symptoms suggesting kidney problems or if this is a change from previous values, clinical correlation would be appropriate.
- Regular monitoring of kidney function may be warranted if the child has conditions that could affect the kidneys, such as diabetes, hypertension, or is taking medications that might impact kidney function 2.
Estimating Kidney Function
Estimating static kidney function accurately and detecting changes in kidney function in a timely fashion are challenging but critically important tasks 3. The Chronic Kidney Disease in children (CKiD) equation to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has been optimized by introducing age/sex dependent k-values valid for young children up to young adults (the CKiD Under 25 years (CKiDU25) equation) 1.
Clinical Application
Understanding the pathways involved in creatinine generation and metabolism as well as the techniques involved in measuring creatinine concentrations is critical in allowing accurate interpretation of creatinine values and translating them into changes in kidney function 3.