low urine creatinine

Can a UTI cause a low urine creatinine count? For the past several months my weekly urine tests have never been above 30 mg/dl and 3 times have been below 20 mg/dl. My weekly tests are because of a DUI I received and I will have to continue them if no medical explanation is provided for "dilutes". I went to a doctor and was diagnosed with UTI, was perscribed sulfamet/Trimethoprim, and follow up visit showed UTI cured and urine creatinine 57 mg/dl.  No abnormalities were detected in blood test, serum creatin was normal.  I am 20 years old, 130 lbs, 5'8". Is the urinary tract infection the the likely cause? What is the normal urine creatinine range? If not, what tests do you suggest?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Possible, however a low urine creatinine is a non-specific finding.  I am not aware of a specific disease that is characterized by a low urine creatinine level, and is normally caused by an inadequate specimen.  I would recommend repeating the test.  

Normal range for a man your age would be 18.5 to 25.0 mg/kg/day.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[moonshinehollor]

A related discussion, LOW CREATININE was started.