C-reactive protein (CRP) with probe-based qualitative detection in serum/plasma

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation in your body. Common reasons include monitoring symptoms of infections (like bacterial or viral), evaluating autoimmune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), or assessing response to treatment for chronic diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test to avoid unusual bleeding.

What the Test Results Mean

This test is qualitative, meaning it only tells you if CRP is present (positive) or not (negative). It does not provide a specific amount of CRP, so it won’t show exact levels of inflammation. Results are used to guide further testing or treatment decisions.

Common Conditions Monitored

High CRP levels (positive result) can signal inflammation, which may be linked to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other health issues. A negative result means CRP was not detected in your blood sample, but this doesn’t rule out low-level inflammation entirely.