C-Reactive Protein
Also known as: CRP
Use
The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) test is a preferred diagnostic tool for detecting acute phase inflammation associated with conditions such as autoimmune diseases, connective tissue disease, rheumatoid arthritis, infections, or sepsis. It is important to diagnose and monitor these conditions as they can have serious implications on a patient's overall health. However, this test should not be used for assessing cardiovascular disease risk, as a high-sensitivity CRP test is recommended for that purpose.
Special Instructions
This test is the preferred choice for detecting acute phase inflammation. It's important to note that decreased CRP values might result from specimens of patients treated with carboxypenicillins, which could impact interpretative accuracy.
Limitations
The C-Reactive Protein test is not suitable for cardiovascular disease risk assessment. For this purpose, the C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity test should be used. Specimen integrity must be preserved as hemolyzed specimens are unacceptable. Any potential interference from patient treatment, such as with carboxypenicillins, could affect results.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Quantitative Immunoturbidimetry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1988-5
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Allow serum tube to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum or plasma from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 3 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year (if frozen within 24 hours) |