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

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

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein, a protein produced by your 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
110052-8
Short code
C trach C IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
C trach C IgG Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate your response to treatment. It can also help identify infections or other inflammatory processes in your body.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher than expected levels may indicate inflammation, infections, or certain diseases. Lower levels might suggest reduced inflammation. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re used alongside other information.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum, which is then analyzed using HPLC to measure CRP levels precisely.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to track inflammation in conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), heart disease, or after procedures like surgery or trauma.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: CRP is a marker of acute and chronic inflammation. Elevated levels can signal infections, tissue damage, or inflammatory disorders, guiding treatment decisions. However, it’s not specific to any single condition and often used in combination with other tests.

Short name

CRP (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present in your body, which could be due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory conditions. Your doctor will consider the context, including symptoms and other test results, to determine the cause.
Can CRP levels change over time?
Yes, CRP levels can fluctuate. They may rise quickly during infections or injuries and gradually return to normal as inflammation decreases. Regular monitoring can help track progress in managing chronic conditions.
Is CRP the same as a white blood cell count?
No, CRP measures a protein linked to inflammation, while white blood cell counts assess immune cells. Both are useful but serve different purposes in diagnosing and managing health 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