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Collagen Type II Mass Concentration in Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of collagen type II, a protein found in cartilage, in your blood. It may be used to assess joint health or connective tissue integrity.

Quick summary

["Collagen type II helps support joints and cartilage, and levels can be checked for certain conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41862-4
Short code
Visc 20M p coll Smn
Synonyms
Visc 20M p coll Smn
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 Does This Test Measure?

Collagen type II is a key structural protein in cartilage, which cushions joints. This test quantifies its presence in your blood, helping evaluate cartilage health or detect abnormalities in connective tissue.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, or if you’re at risk for conditions affecting cartilage, such as osteoarthritis or certain autoimmune diseases.

How Is the Sample Collected?

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

What Are Possible Results?

Results are expressed as a mass concentration (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). Interpretation depends on clinical context and your symptoms or diagnosis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Collagen type II levels can be lower in conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or certain genetic disorders affecting cartilage. Elevated levels may rarely indicate inflammation or other connective tissue diseases.

Short name

Collagen II Level

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor ask for this test?
To check for joint or cartilage-related issues, such as early osteoarthritis or connective tissue disorders. It may also be used in research or specialized diagnostic scenarios.
What does a low or high result mean?
Results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re part of a broader evaluation. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to interpret the findings.
Can I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals before the draw. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know.
  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