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C-reactive protein (CRP) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with probe-based measurement

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

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein in your blood, a marker often checked to assess inflammation or infection.

Quick summary

["CRP helps doctors track inflammation, which can signal conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or other health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
4998-1
Short code
CMV DNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
CMV DNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
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 inflammation, check for infections, evaluate autoimmune diseases, or assess risk for conditions like heart disease or certain cancers. It’s sometimes used before or after treatments that affect inflammation.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for about 15 minutes.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Do the Results Mean?

Results are interpreted based on your symptoms, medical history, and other tests. Higher CRP levels often indicate inflammation, while lower levels may suggest reduced inflammation. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my CRP test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to review them with you.
Can I eat or drink before my CRP test?
If your blood is drawn in the morning, fasting for 8–12 hours is often recommended. If your test is scheduled later, follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare team.
What if my CRP level is higher than expected?
A higher CRP level may mean you have an infection, inflammation, or another underlying condition. Your doctor will review your results alongside your symptoms and other tests to determine the next steps, such as further evaluation or treatment adjustments.
  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