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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.
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.
Methodology
Turbidimetric/Immunoturbidimetric
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 7days/Ambient 7 days OK/Frozen OK
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
86140
Reference Values
0-0.8 mg/dL
Performing Laboratory - Chemistry
| Minnesota | North Dakota | Wisconsin |
| Ada Hospital Lab | Fargo Hospital Lab | Ashland Clinic Lab |
| Deer River Hospital Lab | Mid Dakota Bismarck 9th Street | St. Mary's Hospital-Superior |
| Fosston Hospital Lab | South University Clinic Lab | |
| Holy Trinity Hospital Lab | ||
| Moose Lake Hospital Lab | ||
| Northern Pines Lab | ||
| Sandstone Hospital Lab | ||
| SMDC Clinical Lab | ||
| St. Joseph's - Baxter Clinic Lab | ||
| St. Joseph's Medical Center Lab | ||
| St. Mary's - Detroit Lakes Hospital | ||
| Virginia Hospital Lab |