Skip to content

C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, high-sensitivity

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

This test measures a protein in your blood that rises in response to inflammation, helping doctors assess low-level inflammation or infection.

Quick summary

["hs-CRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up in other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36005-7
Short code
CT Hand-L
Synonyms
CT Hand-L
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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 doctor may order this test to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or autoimmune disorders, or to check for early signs of infection or inflammation after surgery, injury, or illness. It’s also used in research or screening for certain risks.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

A higher-than-normal hs-CRP level may indicate inflammation, which can affect conditions like heart disease or rheumatoid arthritis. A lower level suggests reduced inflammation. However, results alone don’t diagnose a specific condition—your doctor will consider other factors.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure CRP levels using a sensitive method called nephelometry.

What Should You Know Before Testing?

Avoid strenuous exercise or eating a heavy meal 24 hours before the test. Some medications (like steroids) or recent infections may affect results, so tell your doctor about any recent changes in your health or medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does a normal hs-CRP level mean for my health?
A normal result doesn’t guarantee you’re free of inflammation, but it suggests your body’s response to minor or chronic inflammation is within a baseline range. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Can diet or exercise affect my hs-CRP test results?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence inflammation. Eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and managing stress may help lower CRP levels over time, but results from a single test aren’t definitive.
Is hs-CRP the same as a general inflammation test?
No. hs-CRP is a highly sensitive marker for inflammation, while other tests (like erythrocyte sedimentation rate or white blood cell count) measure different aspects of the immune response. Your doctor may use multiple tests together for a full picture.
  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