Several different kidney conditions could cause elevated creatinine levels. An elevated level may suggest the kidneys arteries are swollen as a result of an autoimmune disease or an infection. It can indicate that this kidneys suffer from a bacterial infection. It can indicate that some of the small tubes inside kidneys have dead cells. It can indicate a kidney stone. Elevated levels may also indicate a reduction in the circulation of blood to the kidneys due to diabetes complications, shock, atherosclerosis, congestive heart failure or dehydration.