Is a creatinine level of 38 normal for women?

　　A creatinine level of 38 refers to 38 μmol/L. In women, a creatinine level of 38 μmol/L is generally considered abnormal.

　　Creatinine includes both blood creatinine and urine creatinine, both of which are filtered by the kidneys and are metabolic byproducts of muscle metabolism in the body. Clinically, creatinine is the most commonly used indicator for assessing kidney function. Normally, the serum creatinine level in women ranges from 44 to 97 μmol/L, while the normal range for urinary creatinine in women is 40 to 130 μmol/L. Therefore, a creatinine level of 38 μmol/L in women is below the normal range regardless of whether it refers to blood or urine creatinine, indicating a low value. Slightly low blood creatinine levels usually do not have significant clinical implications and are commonly seen in elderly individuals or those who are underweight.

　　Low urine creatinine levels may be observed in conditions such as acute or chronic renal insufficiency, severe congestive heart failure, hyperthyroidism, anemia, muscular dystrophy, leukemia, etc. Additionally, low creatinine levels can also occur in individuals following a vegetarian diet, taking oral androgens, or using thiazide diuretics.

　　Abnormal creatinine levels, whether too high or too low, should be taken seriously to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.