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Serum or plasma concentration of a generic inflammatory marker (e.g., C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, or similar acute-phase reactant)

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

This test measures a substance in your blood that rises when your body is fighting infection, inflammation, or injury.

Quick summary

["Helps identify causes of fever, night sweats, or other signs of inflammation or infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
28392-9
Short code
NIGHTSWEATS
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
reported-hiv-ssc
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to check for infections (like bacterial or viral), autoimmune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), or other health issues that cause inflammation. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions like cancer or infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

High levels may suggest infection, inflammation, or an autoimmune response. Low levels could indicate no active inflammation or a suppressed immune response (rare). Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Linked to Elevated Levels

Elevated levels are often seen in infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections), inflammatory diseases (e.g., lupus, Crohn’s disease), or after trauma/surgery. Low levels may occur in advanced infections or certain immune disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Elevated levels are a nonspecific marker—meaning they can appear in many conditions. Doctors use them alongside other tests (like symptoms, imaging, or cultures) to narrow down potential causes. Persistently high or low levels may prompt further evaluation.

Short name

Inflammatory marker level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean on my own?
A high result alone doesn’t diagnose a specific condition. It signals your body is likely responding to inflammation, infection, or another stressor. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to guide next steps.
Can I lower my inflammatory marker levels naturally?
Yes! Reducing inflammation may involve lifestyle changes like improving diet (e.g., anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, omega-3s), staying hydrated, managing stress, and exercising regularly. If a medical condition is causing it, your doctor may recommend treatments like medications or therapy.
Does this test ever show false positives or negatives?
Yes. False positives can occur if you have recent infection, injury, or certain medications. False negatives are rare but may happen in advanced infections or if the test is done too early. Your doctor will review your results in full context.
  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