C-reactive protein (CRP) by probe-based immunoassay
This test measures a protein called C-reactive protein, which your body produces in response to inflammation. It helps doctors assess whether you have low-grade inflammation that may be linked to conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders.
["CRP helps track inflammation, guiding decisions about treatments or further tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86220-1
- Short code
- OXA48
- Synonyms
- blaOXA-48 Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container; appropriate transport medium (e.g., Cary-Blair or ESwab) for rectal/perineal swabs; sterile tube for serum
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87150
- SNOMED
- 122455009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum or per institutional specimen collection requirements; for swab specimens, follow manufacturer collection kit instructions
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24-48 hours; Frozen (-70°C or below): longer storage acceptable. Follow specific assay manufacturer guidelines.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to monitor chronic conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or other inflammatory diseases. It can also be used to check for signs of infection or to evaluate how well certain treatments are working.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal CRP levels often indicate inflammation. While this test doesn’t diagnose a specific condition, it can signal areas for further investigation, such as imaging or additional blood tests.
Common Conditions Monitored
Elevated CRP is commonly checked in people with suspected infections, autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis), or after surgery to see how well your body is healing.
Reference range
Not Detected (Negative) - blaOXA-48 gene not detected; Detected (Positive) - blaOXA-48 carbapenemase gene presentN/A
No special patient preparation required. Collect specimen prior to administration of antibiotics whenever possible to maximize detection sensitivity.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CRP (High-Sensitivity)
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to fast before this test?
What does a high CRP level mean?
Can I take medications before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy