Skip to content

C-reactive protein (CRP) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in serum/plasma

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 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
22195-2
Short code
C trach B IgG Titr Ser
Synonyms
C trach B IgG Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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 check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate your response to treatment. It can also help identify infections or other inflammatory processes in your body.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Higher than normal CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but they can also be influenced by factors like stress, recent illness, or certain medications. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Common Conditions Monitored

Elevated CRP levels are commonly seen in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, heart disease, infections, or after surgeries or injuries. It’s not specific to any single disease but is a general marker of inflammation.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my CRP levels be higher than expected?
Several factors can influence CRP levels, including recent infections, injuries, stress, certain medications, or underlying conditions like arthritis or heart disease. Your doctor will consider these factors when reviewing your results.
Can I lower my CRP levels naturally?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as improving diet (e.g., reducing processed foods, increasing fruits and vegetables), staying physically active, managing stress, and quitting smoking may help lower inflammation and CRP levels over time.
Is CRP the same as a white blood cell count test?
No, CRP measures a specific protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, while a white blood cell count assesses the number of different types of white blood cells in your blood. Both tests can be used together to evaluate health and diagnose conditions.
  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