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C-reactive protein (CRP) with a specific probe-based immunoassay for acute-phase response monitoring

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

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood, a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation or infection.

Quick summary

["CRP helps your doctor assess inflammation, which can signal infection, injury, or other health issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80364-3
Short code
C trach rRNA Anorectl Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
C trach rRNA Anorectl Ql NAA+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-amp-tar
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or after surgery to check for signs of inflammation. It can also help track how well treatments are working for conditions like arthritis or heart disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

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

What the Results Mean

Higher CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but the exact meaning depends on your overall health and symptoms. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and other tests.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is commonly used to evaluate conditions such as infections (like pneumonia or sepsis), inflammatory diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis), or to check for signs of tissue damage or healing after surgery.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CRP is a sensitive marker of inflammation. While not specific to any single condition, elevated levels can signal widespread inflammation, which may prompt further testing or treatment adjustments. It’s often used alongside other tests to guide diagnosis and management plans.

Short name

CRP Probe Test

Frequently asked questions

What causes CRP levels to rise?
CRP levels can increase due to infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), injuries, surgeries, autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), or certain medications. Stress, obesity, or smoking may also affect CRP levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they have the results.
Can CRP levels be affected by diet or lifestyle?
Yes, diet, exercise, smoking, and weight can influence CRP levels. Reducing inflammation through healthy habits may help lower CRP, but this test alone doesn’t diagnose conditions—it’s used alongside other factors.
  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