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C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity measurement, plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, helping detect low-level inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["High-sensitivity CRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up in other tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73698-3
Short code
CCHD SaO2 scrn not prfrmd
Synonyms
CCHD SaO2 scrn not prfrmd
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory diseases. It’s also used to assess risk for future health issues, such as heart attacks or strokes, especially in people with no obvious symptoms of inflammation.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are not given as a single range but are interpreted in the context of your overall health and medical history. Elevated levels may indicate ongoing inflammation, while lower levels suggest reduced inflammation. Your provider will discuss what your specific result means for you.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to evaluate risk for cardiovascular events, track inflammation in autoimmune diseases, or monitor response to treatments for conditions like arthritis or infections.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The plasma portion of the blood is then analyzed to measure CRP levels using a sensitive immunoassay method.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hs-CRP (Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present in your body, which may be linked to conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or underlying health issues such as heart disease. Your provider will review your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, current health status, and treatment plan. Some people get it yearly or more frequently if they have a higher risk for inflammation-related conditions.
Can lifestyle changes affect CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, smoking, and stress can influence CRP levels. Eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking may help lower inflammation and CRP levels over time.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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