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C-reactive protein (CRP) measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or a similar quantitative method

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 identify and monitor inflammation, often used to check for infections or other health conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14199-4
Short code
C trach B IgA Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
C trach B IgA 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions like arthritis, or evaluate symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or swelling. It can also help assess risk for heart disease or other inflammatory diseases.

What Does a High or Low CRP Level Mean?

A high CRP level often indicates inflammation, which can be caused by infections, injuries, or autoimmune diseases. A consistently low level may suggest no active inflammation, but it doesn’t rule out all causes of illness.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a method like HPLC to measure CRP levels accurately.

What Are Common Causes of High CRP?

High CRP levels can be due to infections (like pneumonia or urinary tract infections), injuries, surgeries, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. It can also appear in response to stress or certain medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a CRP test measure?
A CRP test measures the amount of C-reactive protein in your blood. This protein is produced by your liver and rises when your body is fighting inflammation or infection.
How long does it take to get CRP test results?
Results from a CRP test are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Can CRP levels change over time?
Yes, CRP levels can fluctuate. They may rise quickly in response to infections or injuries and return to normal as your body heals. Chronic conditions like arthritis may also cause steady, lower-level CRP elevation.
  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