C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity immunoassay (hs-CRP)
This test measures a protein in your blood that rises when inflammation is present, often used to check for low-grade inflammation or infection.
["High-sensitivity CRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up with standard tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72605-9
- Short code
- CMV gp Gentyp Spec NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- CMV gp Gentyp Spec NAA+probe
- Category
- glucose
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or autoimmune disorders, or to assess risk for future health issues. It can also help evaluate inflammation after surgery, trauma, or infection.
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
Results are not given in absolute numbers but compared to your doctor’s interpretation. Higher levels may indicate inflammation, while lower levels suggest reduced risk. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
This test is often used to monitor conditions like coronary artery disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease. It can also help screen for risk of future heart problems.
While CRP is a marker for inflammation, it doesn’t diagnose a specific condition. Your doctor will use it alongside other tests and symptoms to guide treatment.
Most people experience only mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, there may be a slight reaction like redness or swelling.
If you notice unusual pain, bleeding, or signs of infection (like fever) at the site, contact your doctor immediately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High-sensitivity CRP is a sensitive marker for systemic inflammation. Elevated levels can signal chronic inflammation, which may contribute to conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or certain cancers. It’s particularly useful for identifying patients at higher risk for complications, even if symptoms are mild.
Short name
High-sensitivity CRP
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise affect CRP levels?
Is this test the same as a standard CRP 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