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C-reactive protein (high-sensitivity) concentration

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

This test measures a protein in your blood that rises when inflammation is present, often used to assess low-grade inflammation or risk of future heart problems.

Quick summary

["hs-CRP helps track inflammation and may indicate future cardiovascular risks."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41807-9
Short code
CT Orbit
Synonyms
CT Orbit
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 hs-CRP Used For?

Doctors may order hs-CRP to monitor chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease, check for silent inflammation, or evaluate risk for heart attacks or strokes in people without obvious symptoms. It’s sometimes used alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions.

How Is the Test Done?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure the hs-CRP level. Results are typically ready within a few days.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

A high hs-CRP level suggests inflammation is active, which could be linked to conditions like autoimmune diseases or cardiovascular risk. A low level usually means less inflammation is present, but this isn’t definitive on its own. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

hs-CRP is often used in people with heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis to track inflammation. It may also be checked in those at higher risk for heart attacks or strokes, even if they don’t have symptoms yet.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: hs-CRP plays a role in identifying inflammation that might not be obvious through other tests. While it’s not a standalone diagnosis, it can help doctors adjust treatments, such as managing blood pressure or cholesterol, to reduce long-term risks.

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend hs-CRP to assess inflammation in conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or to evaluate cardiovascular risk, especially if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart problems.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Some doctors check it yearly in high-risk patients, while others may order it less often or only when symptoms or other test results suggest inflammation is present.
Can lifestyle changes affect hs-CRP levels?
Yes! Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet (like Mediterranean diet), quitting smoking, and managing stress can lower inflammation and potentially reduce hs-CRP levels over time.
  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