C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity measurement
This test measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, helping detect low-level inflammation in your body.
["hs-CRP helps identify subtle inflammation that may not be obvious from other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2030-5
- Short code
- COHgb MFr BldA
- Synonyms
- COHgb MFr BldA
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is High-Sensitivity CRP Used For?
High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is often used to assess risk for heart disease, monitor chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or evaluate inflammation after an injury or surgery. It can also help guide treatment decisions for conditions where inflammation plays a role.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect CRP levels.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order hs-CRP if you have risk factors for heart disease, symptoms of inflammation, or if you’re being monitored for conditions like autoimmune diseases. It may also be used in routine check-ups for certain populations.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are typically reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Higher levels may indicate inflammation, but interpretation depends on your overall health and clinical context. Your doctor will discuss the meaning of your specific result with you.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: hs-CRP and Inflammation
Short name
hs-CRP
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges for hs-CRP?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect hs-CRP levels?
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