A C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a simple yet vital laboratory procedure used to detect inflammation in the body. This test measures the level of CRP, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, in the blood. The process of conducting a CRP test in a lab setting involves several steps to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Sample Collection: The first step in conducting a CRP test is obtaining a blood sample from the patient. A healthcare professional typically draws the blood from a vein in the arm using a sterile needle. The blood is collected into a tube that is then labeled with the patient's information.
Preparation of the Sample: Once the blood sample is collected, it is sent to the laboratory for processing. In the lab, the blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the serum, which contains CRP, from the other components of the blood, such as red and white blood cells.
Analysis of CRP Levels: The separated serum is then analyzed using an immunoassay technique, which involves antibodies that specifically bind to CRP. This binding triggers a measurable signal, often a color change, which is proportional to the amount of CRP present in the sample. The signal is then read using specialized laboratory equipment, which quantifies the CRP levels in milligrams per liter (mg/L).
Interpretation of Results: The CRP levels are then interpreted by medical professionals. Normal CRP levels are generally below 10 mg/L. Elevated CRP levels can indicate acute inflammation, infection, or chronic inflammatory conditions. In some cases, a high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test is used, which is more sensitive to low levels of CRP and is often used to assess cardiovascular risk.
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