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C-reactive protein (CRP) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)

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

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["CRP helps doctors assess inflammation, often used to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or after surgery."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83007-5
Short code
COSMICVERSION
Synonyms
—
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 healthcare provider may order CRP testing to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions, or evaluate symptoms like fever, joint pain, or unexplained fatigue. It can also help guide treatment decisions for conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood from a vein. If you’re on blood thinners, inform your provider before the test.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but they can also be influenced by factors like stress, recent illness, or certain medications. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

CRP is commonly used to monitor conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, heart disease, infections, or post-surgical recovery. It may also help track how well certain treatments are working.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present in your body, which could be due to infection, an autoimmune condition, or other health issues. Your provider will discuss this with you and may recommend further testing or adjustments to your treatment plan.
Can diet or exercise affect CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence CRP levels. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and managing stress may help lower inflammation over time. Always follow your provider’s advice for managing your condition.
Is CRP testing painful?
Most people experience only mild discomfort or a slight pinch during the blood draw. The area may feel sore for a few minutes afterward, but this usually goes away quickly. If you’re anxious about needles, let your provider know so they can offer alternatives.
  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