C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity measurement
This test measures the level of a protein called C-reactive protein in your blood, which helps assess inflammation in your body.
["hs-CRP helps doctors check for signs of inflammation, often used to monitor conditions like heart disease risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110056-9
- Short code
- C trach G+F+K IgM Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- C trach G+F+K IgM 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 hs-CRP Matters in Your Health
Inflammation is your body’s way of responding to injury or infection, but sometimes it can become chronic and affect conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or autoimmune disorders. hs-CRP is a sensitive marker for low-level inflammation that may not be detected by other tests.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm, and the lab uses a highly sensitive method to measure CRP levels. This test is often ordered to monitor ongoing health risks or to guide treatment decisions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid strenuous activity or heavy meals 24 hours before the test. If you’re on blood thinners or have recent trauma, let your provider know.
Common Uses for hs-CRP
Doctors may order hs-CRP to evaluate risk for cardiovascular disease, track inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or monitor response to treatments for chronic illnesses.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
hs-CRP
Frequently asked questions
hs-CRP is primarily used to assess the risk of heart disease or other inflammatory conditions. Higher levels may indicate increased risk, prompting further evaluation or lifestyle changes.
A high hs-CRP level suggests your body is experiencing inflammation, which could be linked to conditions like heart disease, infections, or autoimmune disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Your doctor will determine how often to check hs-CRP based on your medical history, symptoms, and treatment plan. Some people may need it yearly or more frequently if they have ongoing health concerns.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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