C-reactive protein (CRP) with plasma concentration measurement
This test measures the level of C-reactive protein in your blood plasma, a protein produced by the liver that rises in response to inflammation or infection.
["CRP helps doctors assess inflammation, track infections, or monitor conditions like arthritis or heart disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72389-0
- Short code
- C krusei DNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- C krusei DNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 82553
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order a CRP test to check for signs of inflammation, infections, or other health issues. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, or infections such as pneumonia or sepsis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a larger blood panel. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.
How the Test Works
A small needle will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab to measure CRP levels using a sensitive immunoassay method.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal CRP levels may indicate inflammation, infections, or autoimmune diseases. Lower levels might suggest no active inflammation. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: CRP is a key marker for inflammation. Elevated levels can signal infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease. It’s often used to guide treatment decisions or monitor disease activity.
Short name
CRP (Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes CRP levels to rise?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy