C-reactive protein (CRP) by nephelometry (high-sensitivity)
This test measures a protein in your blood that rises when your body is fighting inflammation, often used to check for low-grade inflammation or infection.
["High-sensitivity CRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up with other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1357-3
- Short code
- 11DC p 750 mg MTP Q4h X 6 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- 11DC p 750 mg MTP Q4h X 6 SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82977
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or autoimmune disorders. It can also help assess risk for future health issues or guide treatment decisions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
How the Results Are Used
Results help doctors compare your inflammation levels over time. Elevated levels may signal inflammation that needs management, while normal levels suggest your body is responding well to treatment.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used alongside other blood work to evaluate conditions like cardiovascular risk, inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or infections.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CRP is a marker for systemic inflammation. High levels may indicate conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or chronic conditions like heart disease. It’s not diagnostic on its own but supports broader assessments.
Short name
High-Sensitivity CRP
Frequently asked questions
What does a high CRP level mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise affect CRP levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy