C-reactive protein (CRP) by nephelometry
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, autoimmune diseases, or after surgery."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94421-5
- Short code
- CGLRNA
- Synonyms
- C glabrata RNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Viral transport medium or sterile transport container suitable for molecular testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87798
- SNOMED
- 441829007
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of vaginal fluid in appropriate transport medium
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is C-Reactive Protein?
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker your body produces when inflammation is present. It’s not specific to any single condition but often rises with infections, injuries, or certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease. Your doctor may order this test to check for inflammation or monitor a condition you already have.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may request CRP testing to evaluate symptoms like fever, joint pain, or swelling. It can also help track how well treatments for inflammation are working or check for hidden infections. Some people get it as part of routine health checks or before surgeries.
What Does a High CRP Level Mean?
A higher-than-normal CRP level suggests inflammation is active. While it doesn’t point to a specific cause, it can signal conditions like infections, autoimmune disorders, or other inflammatory diseases. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
How Is This Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab uses a special method called nephelometry to measure CRP levels accurately. The process is quick and usually requires no special preparation.
Reference range
Negative (no Candida glabrata RNA detected)N/A
Patient should avoid vaginal douching, sexual intercourse, and use of vaginal medications or creams for at least 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Avoid collection during menstruation when possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CRP plays a key role in identifying and managing inflammatory conditions. It’s often used alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions, such as adjusting medications for arthritis or heart disease. Some studies also use CRP to predict risks of future health issues like heart attacks or strokes.
Short name
CRP (Nephelometry)
Frequently asked questions
What does a CRP test measure?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this 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