C-reactive protein (CRP) by nephelometry (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, autoimmune diseases, or after surgery."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54206-8
- Short code
- CMV DNA SerPl NAA+probe-Log#
- Synonyms
- CMV DNA SerPl NAA+probe-Log#
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 doctor may order this 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 Level Mean?
Elevated CRP levels often indicate inflammation or infection. Very low levels may suggest reduced immune response or certain medical conditions. However, results alone don’t diagnose a specific condition—your doctor will consider your full medical picture.
Sample Preparation and Collection
This test uses blood drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test to avoid unusual bleeding.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous activity 24 hours before the test. If you’re on medications, tell your lab staff to ensure accurate results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: CRP’s Role in Healthcare
Short name
CRP (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
CRP is a key marker for inflammation, helping doctors track disease activity, guide treatment plans, and assess recovery. It’s also used in research to study immune responses and long-term health risks like cardiovascular disease.
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence CRP levels. Eating anti-inflammatory foods, staying active, and managing stress may help lower CRP over time.
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