C-reactive protein, serum concentration (high-sensitivity)
This test measures the level of a protein called C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. CRP is produced by your liver in response to inflammation or infection.
["hs-CRP helps track inflammation in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 52876-0
- Short code
- CD1a
- Synonyms
- CD1a Cells NFr Tiss
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile container for fresh tissue; formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block for IHC; RPMI or similar transport medium for flow cytometry
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) / Flow Cytometry / Immunofluorescence
- CPT
- 88342
- SNOMED
- 38614009
- Specimen volume
- Adequate tissue sample required (minimum 0.5 cm³ or biopsy-sized specimen)
- Stability
- Fresh tissue: process within 24 hours at 2-8°C; FFPE blocks: stable indefinitely at room temperature
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor conditions like heart disease, or evaluate how well your body is responding to treatment for conditions such as arthritis or infections.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
High levels of CRP may indicate inflammation, which can be linked to conditions like heart disease, autoimmune disorders, or infections. Low levels usually mean there is little to no inflammation present.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure CRP levels using a sensitive immunoassay method.
What Should You Know Before the Test?
You may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods for a short time before the test, depending on your specific situation. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Reference range
Reported as percentage of positive cells or cells per high-power field (HPF); interpretation depends on tissue type and clinical context. Reference ranges are laboratory-specific.N/A
No special patient preparation required for tissue specimens. Tissue samples should be submitted fresh, frozen, or in appropriate fixative (e.g., 10% neutral buffered formalin) depending on methodology.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
hs-CRP
Frequently asked questions
What does a high hs-CRP level mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect hs-CRP levels?
How often should I get this test?
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