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C-reactive protein (CRP) mass concentration in serum/plasma

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

This test measures the amount 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
104939-4
Short code
CT Hip mCnc for BMD
Synonyms
CT Hip mCnc for BMD
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

What Is C-Reactive Protein (CRP)?

CRP is a marker that rises when your body is fighting inflammation. It’s not specific to any one condition but can signal widespread inflammation, which may be due to infections, injuries, or certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order CRP testing to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions, or evaluate symptoms like fever, joint pain, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also sometimes used before procedures to assess risk.

How Is the Test Done?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure CRP levels. Results are typically available within a few days.

What Do My Results Mean?

Results are interpreted based on your overall health and symptoms. Higher-than-normal levels may indicate inflammation, while lower levels suggest reduced inflammation. Your doctor will discuss these results with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: CRP plays a key role in diagnosing and managing conditions involving inflammation. Elevated levels can help identify infections, autoimmune disorders, or other inflammatory processes, guiding treatment decisions.

Short name

CRP

Frequently asked questions

What causes CRP levels to change?
CRP levels can rise due to infections (like pneumonia or urinary tract infections), injuries, surgeries, autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), or other inflammatory conditions. Stress, certain medications, or recent illness may also temporarily affect levels.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need CRP testing based on your health status, symptoms, or treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be part of managing chronic conditions, but timing depends on individual needs.
Can I affect my CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, smoking, and stress can influence CRP levels. Reducing inflammation through healthy habits may help lower CRP, but this isn’t a direct test for lifestyle changes—your doctor will assess overall health.
  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