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Serum/plasma substance concentration for a specific protein marker (likely related to acute-phase response or inflammation)

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

This test measures a protein in your blood that may change in response to inflammation, infection, or other health conditions.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors assess underlying inflammation or immune system activity."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5275-3
Short code
ENA PCNA Ab Ser Ql IA
Synonyms
ENA PCNA Ab Ser Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 This Test Measures

The test detects a protein that can rise when your body is responding to illness, injury, or inflammation. This protein may be part of the acute-phase response, which helps the body fight off infections or repair tissue damage.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or to check for signs of inflammation before or after treatments.

Common Uses

This test is sometimes used alongside other blood tests to get a fuller picture of your health status, especially if symptoms suggest inflammation or immune system involvement.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

How results might be interpreted depends on the specific protein being measured and your overall health. Elevated levels may indicate active inflammation or infection, while lower levels might suggest suppressed immune response or certain chronic conditions.
This test alone doesn’t diagnose a specific condition but can help guide treatment decisions by showing trends in your body’s response to illness or therapy.
What does a high or low result mean?
A high result may signal inflammation, infection, or other health issues that require further evaluation. A low result might need investigation to rule out conditions affecting protein production or immune function.
How often will I need this test?
Your doctor will determine how often this test is needed based on your medical history, symptoms, and treatment plan. Follow-up testing may be scheduled if your condition changes or if monitoring is required.
  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