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C-Reactive Protein (CRP) with Plasma Specimen

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["CRP helps doctors assess inflammation, often used to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or after surgery."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43380-5
Short code
C immitis IgG Spec-aCnc
Synonyms
C immitis IgG Spec-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate symptoms such as fever, pain, or swelling. It can also help determine if an infection is present or if your body is reacting to an injury or illness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Higher CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but results alone don’t diagnose a specific condition. Your provider will compare the result to your symptoms and other tests for context.

Common Conditions Monitored

CRP is commonly used to track inflammation in conditions like infections (e.g., pneumonia), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), heart disease, or after surgeries like joint replacements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP Plasma

Frequently asked questions

What causes CRP levels to change?
CRP levels can rise due to infections (bacterial or viral), injuries, surgeries, or certain medications. They may also fluctuate with chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease. Stress or recent illness can temporarily affect results.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your health needs. Some people get it yearly for monitoring, while others may need it more frequently if they have ongoing inflammation or a chronic condition.
Can diet or exercise affect CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet (e.g., Mediterranean diet), exercise, and weight management can influence CRP levels. Reducing inflammation through healthy habits may lower CRP, but results depend on overall health and medical context.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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