Peptide C (Propeptide of Procollagen, Type I) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures a specific protein fragment found in your blood, which can help assess collagen production and certain connective tissue disorders.
["Peptide C levels may indicate how well your body produces collagen, aiding in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or other connective tissue diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16501-9
- Short code
- C peptide sp7 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- C peptide sp7 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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
What Is Peptide C Used For?
Peptide C is primarily used to evaluate collagen synthesis and identify conditions affecting connective tissue integrity. It may be part of a broader diagnostic workup for inherited disorders or chronic connective tissue diseases.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like joint hypermobility, skin abnormalities, or a family history of connective tissue disorders. It helps confirm or rule out conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or other collagen-related disorders.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed into either serum (after clotting) or plasma (using an anticoagulant). This sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What Does a Result Mean?
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your clinical picture, symptoms, and other test findings. Abnormal levels may suggest impaired collagen production or connective tissue disorders, but they are not standalone diagnoses.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Peptide C Levels and Connective Tissue Disorders
Short name
Peptide C Screening
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What are the typical reference ranges?
Can I influence my Peptide C levels?
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