C-reactive protein (high-sensitivity) in serum or plasma
This test measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, helping assess low-grade inflammation in the body.
["hs-CRP helps track inflammation, often used alongside other tests to monitor conditions like heart disease risk or autoimmune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109611-4
- Short code
- CEAPF
- Synonyms
- CEA Msmt Plr
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container without anticoagulant (plain red-top tube or sterile collection container); aliquot into plastic transport tube preferred
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (chemiluminescent or electrochemiluminescent)
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 82922009
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL of pleural fluid
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is hs-CRP Used For?
hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is primarily used to evaluate the presence of mild, chronic inflammation in your body. It can help doctors assess risk for conditions like cardiovascular disease, especially when combined with other factors such as cholesterol levels or blood pressure.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. The lab uses a sensitive immunoassay method to detect the protein levels.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order hs-CRP if you have risk factors for inflammation-related diseases (e.g., high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease) or if symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or unexplained swelling suggest inflammation.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are not interpreted alone but in context with your overall health. Higher levels may indicate increased inflammation, which could signal underlying conditions needing further evaluation.
Reference range
NCBI: CEA <5 ng/mL (non-smokers <2.5)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Thoracentesis is performed by qualified personnel under sterile conditions, typically with local anesthesia.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
hs-CRP
Frequently asked questions
Why was my hs-CRP test ordered?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy