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C-reactive protein (high-sensitivity) by nephelometry

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

This test measures a protein in your blood that rises in response to inflammation, helping doctors assess low-level inflammation or infection.

Quick summary

["hs-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
62455-1
Short code
C immitis F Ab Ser Ql ID
Synonyms
C immitis F Ab Ser Ql ID
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-diffusion
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 this test to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory disorders. It can also help check for infections, especially when other symptoms are mild or absent.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small needle will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed for the protein levels using a special nephelometry method.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-normal levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or autoimmune activity. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest reduced inflammation, but they don’t always mean you’re healthy.

What Are Common Causes?

Increased levels can occur with infections (bacterial, viral), injuries, surgeries, or conditions like heart disease, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease. Repeatedly low levels may be normal for some people.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: hs-CRP is a marker for systemic inflammation. While not diagnostic on its own, it supports decisions about treatments, monitoring disease activity, or guiding preventive care in high-risk patients.

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does a high hs-CRP level mean?
A high hs-CRP level suggests your body is actively fighting inflammation or infection, which could signal conditions like heart disease, autoimmune disorders, or infections. Your doctor will consider this alongside other test results and symptoms to guide further action.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, treatment plan, and symptoms. Some people get it yearly or more frequently if they have chronic inflammation or heart risks.
Can lifestyle changes affect hs-CRP levels?
Yes! Reducing stress, improving diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s), staying active, and avoiding smoking can lower inflammation and potentially reduce hs-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