C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, serum/plasma
This test measures the level of C-reactive protein, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in your body.
["CRP helps doctors assess inflammation, often used to monitor conditions like infections or autoimmune diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 32527-4
- Short code
- CD2BM
- Synonyms
- CD2 Cells NFr Mar
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Bone marrow aspirate collected in heparinized tube (green-top) or EDTA tube (lavender-top) for flow cytometry; sterile transport medium acceptable
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 30
- Ref high
- 80
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry with CD2 monoclonal antibody immunophenotyping
- CPT
- 86359
- SNOMED
- 14297002
- Specimen volume
- 1-3 mL of bone marrow aspirate
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 24 hours when stored at room temperature (18-25°C); viable for up to 48 hours if refrigerated at 2-8°C; do not freeze
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order a CRP test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate responses to treatments. It can also help diagnose infections or identify risks for conditions like heart disease.
What Does a High or Low CRP Level Mean?
A high CRP level often indicates inflammation, which can be due to infections, injuries, or autoimmune diseases. A low level generally suggests minimal inflammation, but results alone don’t diagnose a specific condition.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure CRP levels using a sensitive detection method.
What Are Common Uses?
CRP is commonly used to monitor inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or heart disease. It may also be used to screen for infections or assess risk for future health issues.
Reference range
CD2+ T-cells in bone marrow constitute approximately 30-80% of total lymphoid cells; results should be interpreted in conjunction with complete bone marrow immunophenotyping panelN/A
No special preparation required. Patient should inform physician of all medications including immunosuppressants. Bone marrow aspiration is performed under local anesthesia.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CRP
Frequently asked questions
What might cause my CRP levels to be elevated?
How soon will I get my results, and what do they mean?
Can I lower my CRP levels naturally?
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