C-reactive protein (CRP) by turbidimetry (high-sensitivity) in serum/plasma
This test measures a protein called C-reactive protein (CRP), which your body produces in response to inflammation. It helps doctors assess whether inflammation is present in your body.
["hs-CRP helps track inflammation, aiding in early detection of conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or heart risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87620-1
- Short code
- CAURITS2
- Synonyms
- C auris ITS2 Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof, screw-cap container or swab transport system (e.g., Copan ESwab, BD ESwab, or equivalent viral/fungal transport medium); sterile container for fluid or tissue specimens
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87798
- SNOMED
- 122451000119108
- Specimen volume
- Swab specimens: 1 swab; Fluid/tissue specimens: 1-5 mL or 1-2 g of tissue
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-70°C or below): 30 days. Transport to laboratory promptly to preserve nucleic acid integrity.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–48 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Healthcare providers may order hs-CRP to monitor chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease, check for infections, or evaluate risk after a heart attack or stroke. It can also help guide treatment decisions for conditions involving inflammation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Higher levels may suggest inflammation, but they don’t always indicate a specific cause. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Monitored
hs-CRP is often used to monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or cardiovascular risks. It may also help assess response to treatments targeting inflammation.
Reference range
Negative (Candida auris DNA not detected). Results are reported qualitatively as Detected or Not Detected.N/A
No fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy whenever possible, as antifungal agents may reduce organism burden and affect detection sensitivity.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated CRP levels can signal inflammation, which may be due to infections, injuries, autoimmune diseases, or other health issues. However, it’s not a standalone test for diagnosis—results are usually reviewed alongside other symptoms and tests.
Short name
hs-CRP
Frequently asked questions
What does a high hs-CRP level mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How often is hs-CRP tested?
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