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HelpTest Code LAB5016 C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Plasma or Serum
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| CRP | LAB5016 | CRPRO |
Useful For/Utility
Measurement of C-reactive protein is useful in the detection and evaluation of infection, tissue injury and inflammatory disorders.
Methodology
Turbidimetric/Immunoturbidimetric
Clinical Information
C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein whose concentration rises non-specifically in response to inflammation. CRP is seen to increase as a result of the inflammatory process, most notably in response to pneumococcal (bacterial) infection, histolytic disease, and a variety of other disease states. Intraindividual variation is a major limitation of the assay when the assay is used for directing therapies. Intraindividual variations of the CRP levels are from 30% to 60%. Serial measurement may be required to estimate true mean of CRP depending on the intended use in any specific individual. CRP is used as a marker or general diagnostic indicator of infections and inflammation, in addition to serving as a monitor of patient response to pharmacological therapy and surgery.
Specimen Requirements
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Preferred:
Specimen Type: Plasma
Container/Tube: Light-green top (lithium heparin gel)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Separate plasma from cells within 2 hours of draw.
2. If plunger filters are used, immediate removal of plasma is indicated unless an air gap can be created between the device and specimen.
Additional Information:
1. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles.
2. Label specimen appropriately (plasma).
Alternate:
Specimen Type: Serum
Container/Tube: Serum gel
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Separate serum from cells within 2 hours of draw.
2. If plunger filters are used, immediate removal of serum is indicated unless an air gap can be created between the device and specimen.
Additional Information:
1. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles.
2. Label specimen appropriately (serum).
Specimen Transport Temperature
Refrigerate 5 days/Ambient 8 hours OK/Frozen OK
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Performing Laboratory
Chemistry -
St. Joseph's - Baxter Clinic Lab, St. Joseph's - Brainerd Clinic Lab, St. Joseph's Medical Center Lab
Ashland Clinic Lab, Deer River Hospital Lab, Ely Clinic Lab, Hayward Clinic Lab, Hibbing Clinic Lab, International Falls Clinic Lab, Moose Lake Hospital Lab, Northern Pines Lab, Sandstone Hospital Lab, SMDC Clinical Lab, Spooner Clinic Lab, St. Mary's Hospital - Superior Lab, Virginia Hospital Lab
Ada Hospital Lab, Fargo Hospital Lab, Holy Trinity Hospital Lab, South University Clinic Lab, St. Mary's - Detroit Lakes Hospital Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
86140
Reference Values
0-0.8 mg/dL