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C-reactive protein (CRP) in plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with probe measurement

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
45076-7
Short code
C trach+GC rRNA Spec Ql Probe
Synonyms
C trach+GC rRNA Spec Ql Probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe
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 rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate responses to treatments. It can also help identify infections or other inflammatory processes in your body.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

Elevated CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but they can also be normal in some situations, such as during acute infections or after physical stress. Low levels may suggest reduced inflammation, but they don’t always mean you’re healthy.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. Plasma is separated from the blood cells and sent to the lab for testing using HPLC, a precise method to measure CRP levels accurately.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is commonly used to monitor conditions like cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain infections. It may also be part of routine check-ups for people at higher risk for inflammation-related health issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP (Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What does a CRP test measure?
A CRP test measures the amount of C-reactive protein in your plasma. This protein is produced by your liver in response to inflammation or infection.
How long does it take to get CRP test results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Can CRP levels change with diet or exercise?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence inflammation levels, which may indirectly affect CRP. However, CRP itself is not directly affected by diet or exercise but can be influenced by overall health and inflammation status.
  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