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C-reactive protein, serum/plasma concentration (high-sensitivity)

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

This test measures a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation, helping assess low-grade inflammation or risk for conditions like heart disease.

Quick summary

["hsCRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up on other tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22202-6
Short code
C trach G+F+K IgM Titr Ser
Synonyms
C trach G+F+K IgM Titr 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

What Is hsCRP Used For?

Healthcare providers use hsCRP to monitor chronic inflammation, evaluate cardiovascular risk, and guide treatment decisions—especially for conditions like atherosclerosis or autoimmune diseases. It’s often ordered alongside other tests to provide a fuller picture of your health.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to measure the protein concentration.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

Results are not interpreted in absolute terms alone; they’re considered alongside your overall health, symptoms, and other tests. Elevated levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or increased cardiovascular risk, while low levels suggest minimal inflammation.

Common Conditions Monitored

hsCRP is commonly used to monitor chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or to assess cardiovascular risk in patients with no obvious symptoms of heart disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: hsCRP is a marker of systemic inflammation. While not diagnostic on its own, it can help identify patients at higher risk for cardiovascular events, guide preventive care, or assess response to anti-inflammatory treatments. It’s particularly useful for detecting early inflammation that may not be visible through other tests.

Short name

hsCRP

Frequently asked questions

Why might my hsCRP test be ordered?
Your doctor may order this test if you have risk factors for heart disease (like high cholesterol or diabetes), symptoms of inflammation, or if you’re being evaluated for a condition like autoimmune disease.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can lifestyle changes affect my hsCRP levels?
Yes! Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, and managing stress can lower inflammation and potentially reduce hsCRP levels. Avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight may also help.
  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