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C-reactive protein, serum/plasma concentration (high-sensitivity)

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

This test measures a protein in your blood that rises when your body is fighting inflammation, infection, or injury.

Quick summary

["hs-CRP helps track inflammation levels for conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22205-9
Short code
C immitis Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
C immitis Ab Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 doctor may order hs-CRP to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus. It can also help assess risk for future health issues or guide treatment decisions.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

Elevated hs-CRP suggests active inflammation, while low levels may indicate stable or reduced inflammation. Results alone don’t diagnose a condition but can support broader clinical judgment.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to measure the protein concentration.

What Should You Do Before the Test?

Avoid strenuous exercise or significant stress 24 hours before testing, as these can temporarily raise inflammation markers. Fasted or non-fasted states don’t typically affect hs-CRP results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: hs-CRP in Healthcare

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does hs-CRP measure?
hs-CRP measures the concentration of a protein called C-reactive protein in your blood. It’s a marker of systemic inflammation, often used alongside other tests to assess cardiovascular risk or disease activity.
Can hs-CRP replace other tests like CRP (non-high-sensitivity) or ESR?
No, hs-CRP is more sensitive than standard CRP and provides a more precise estimate of low-grade inflammation. ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) measures red blood cell clumping and is less specific to inflammation.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Your doctor may recommend periodic testing (e.g., every 6–12 months) for chronic conditions like heart disease or to monitor treatment response.
  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