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C-Telopeptide, Joint Fluid — Concentration

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

This test measures C-telopeptide in joint fluid. C-telopeptide is released during collagen breakdown and may reflect local tissue turnover.

Quick summary

["C-telopeptide measurement in joint fluid can provide information about collagen breakdown in the joint."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37238-3
Short code
CT LE joint W contr IS
Synonyms
CT LE joint W contr IS
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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 this test?

This test measures the concentration of C-telopeptide in joint fluid. C-telopeptides are small fragments released when collagen, a structural protein, is broken down.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to evaluate collagen breakdown and tissue turnover within a joint. It is usually interpreted alongside symptoms, examination findings, imaging, and other laboratory results.

How is the test performed?

Joint fluid is usually collected through aspiration, in which a clinician inserts a needle into the joint and withdraws fluid into a sterile tube. The laboratory then measures the C-telopeptide concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is generally not required, but the specific collection and handling instructions may vary. Tell the healthcare team about medications, joint infections, fever, recent injections, or any planned procedures involving the joint.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher C-telopeptide concentration may indicate increased collagen breakdown within the sampled joint, which can occur with inflammatory, degenerative, or other tissue-damaging conditions. Results are not specific to one diagnosis and may also be affected by age, medications, and sampling conditions. The laboratory's reference interval and the full clinical context should be used for interpretation.

Short name

C-Telopeptide (CTX)

Frequently asked questions

What does a C-telopeptide result measure?
It measures the amount of a collagen-breakdown fragment in the submitted specimen. In this test, the specimen appears to be joint fluid.
Is joint aspiration painful or risky?
Joint aspiration can cause temporary pain, bleeding, swelling, or infection. The risks are generally low when the procedure is performed with appropriate sterile technique.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary, although the ordering clinician may give additional instructions. Confirm the required specimen and preparation with the laboratory before the procedure.
  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