C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Label Mnemonic: CRP
Epic code: LAB149
Order form: Laboratory Requisition
Supply order: Supply Order Form
Billing: Billing Policies
CPT code: 86140
Specimen(s):
Plasma
Collection Medium:
Plasma Separator Tube 4.5 mL
Alternate Collection Media:
Call laboratory for additional acceptable specimen collection containers.
Minimum:
3 mL whole blood from light green top tube or 1 light green Microtainer® for pediatric patients
Testing Schedule:
24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.
Turn Around Time:
1 hour (upon receipt in laboratory)
Reference Range:
<0.5 mg/dL
Comments:
Refer to BD Microtainer® Tubes product sheet for detailed sample collection instructions.
Test Limitations:
Criterion: Recovery within plus or minus 10% of initial values.

Icterus: No significant interference up to an I index of 60 
(approximate conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin concentration: 60 
mg/dL or 1026 μmol/l).

Hemolysis: No significant interference up to an H index of 1000. 
(approximate hemoglobin concentration: 1000 mg/dL).

Lipemia (Intralipid): No significant interference up to an L index of 
1000 (approximate triglyceride concentration: 2000 mg/dL or 22.8 
mmol/l).

There is poor correlation between turbidity and triglyceride 
concentration.

Rheumatoid factors less than 1200 IU/mL do not interfere.

A high-dose hook effect may occur at CRP concentrations greater than 
50 
mg/dL.

Significantly decreased CRP values may be obtained from samples taken 
from patients who have been treated with carboxypenicillins.
Methodology:
Immunoturbidimetric
Sample Processing:
Centrifuge at a speed and time necessary to get barrier separation of plasma/serum and cells within 1 hour of collection. Send specimen in original tube. Do Not transfer to another tube.
Each sample must be labeled with at least TWO full patient identifiers (First/Last Name & DOB are sufficient for non-UIHC affiliated clients) to avoid sample rejection/delays.
Sample Storage:
Refrigerate.
All sample storage requirements are intended for delivery to UIHC within 24 hours of collection for testing. If samples won't arrive in this time period, please call the UIHC Core Lab for alternative storage/shipping instructions (319-356-3527).
Transport Instructions:
Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place completed requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.
CPT Code:
86140