CPT® Code 86140

The CPT® Code 86140 refers to the measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) levels through a blood test. C-reactive protein is an acute phase protein that is produced by the liver and released into the bloodstream in response to inflammation and infection. This test is widely utilized in clinical settings due to its ability to indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, although it is important to note that it is not specific to any particular disease or condition. Instead, the CRP test serves as a general marker that can help healthcare providers monitor the body's response to various treatments or assess the necessity for additional diagnostic testing. Elevated levels of CRP can occur in a variety of situations, including during pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy. Furthermore, numerous diseases and conditions can lead to increased CRP levels, such as lymphoma, arteritis/vasculitis, osteomyelitis, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), acute infections, burns, surgical procedures, and organ transplants. The blood sample for this test is typically obtained through venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure. In neonates, serum is tested using an immunoassay, while serum or plasma from all other patients is analyzed using a quantitative immunoturbidimetric method.