Serum or plasma mass concentration of serum amyloid P component
This test measures the amount of serum amyloid P protein in your blood. Serum amyloid P is a protein produced by the liver and found in high levels during inflammation.
["Serum amyloid P helps identify inflammation, though it’s not specific to any single condition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58870-7
- Short code
- GH sp38 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp38 SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Serum Amyloid P Used For?
Serum amyloid P (SAA) is primarily used to assess overall inflammation in the body. While it doesn’t pinpoint the cause of inflammation, it can help track changes over time, especially in conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or chronic illnesses. It’s sometimes used alongside other markers to monitor response to treatment.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where the protein is measured using a specialized laboratory technique.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to inflammation, such as fever, fatigue, or joint pain. It may also be used in research or monitoring certain chronic diseases.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
Elevated levels of serum amyloid P often indicate inflammation, but they don’t specify the exact cause. Very high levels can sometimes suggest conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory disorders. Low levels may occur if inflammation is under control or if the test was not performed correctly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Serum Amyloid P is a non-specific marker of systemic inflammation. While it can help detect inflammation, it’s not diagnostic for any single condition. It’s often used in conjunction with other tests or clinical findings to guide treatment decisions. Elevated levels may prompt further investigation into potential causes, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory processes.
Short name
SAA (Serum Amyloid P)
Frequently asked questions
What triggers changes in serum amyloid P levels?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect serum amyloid P 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