C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of C-reactive protein, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in your body.
["CRP helps identify and monitor inflammation, often used to track conditions like infections or autoimmune diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6914-6
- Short code
- C pneum IgM Titr Ser IF
- Synonyms
- C pneum IgM Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82784
- 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
Doctors may order a CRP test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate responses to treatments. It can also help diagnose infections, such as pneumonia or sepsis, or assess risk for conditions like heart attacks or stroke.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
CRP levels vary depending on health status. Higher levels may indicate inflammation, infections, or certain diseases. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
CRP is often used to monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or heart disease. It can also help track how well treatments are working or if new inflammation is developing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
CRP Level
Frequently asked questions
CRP is a marker for systemic inflammation. Elevated levels can signal infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory processes. While not specific to any single condition, it helps guide further testing or treatment decisions.
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present in your body. This could be due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other health issues. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend additional tests or treatments.
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence CRP levels. Eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and managing stress may help lower inflammation over time.
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