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C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity measurement in serum/plasma

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

This test measures a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation, helping your doctor assess low-level inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["hs-CRP 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
101988-4
Short code
C tropicls DNA Fld Ql Probe.amp.tar
Synonyms
C tropicls DNA Fld Ql Probe.amp.tar
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory disorders. It’s also used to check for signs of infection or inflammation that aren’t obvious through other tests.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

Elevated levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or conditions like autoimmune diseases. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest reduced inflammation, but this isn’t always reliable alone.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure CRP levels using a sensitive method.

What Should You Expect Before the Test?

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or conditions that might affect results, such as recent infections or certain medications.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health needs. It may be done annually or more often if you have ongoing health concerns like heart disease or arthritis.
Can diet or exercise affect my CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence inflammation. Eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and managing stress may help lower CRP levels over time.
Does this test replace other blood tests?
No, hs-CRP is one tool among many. It’s often used alongside other tests like cholesterol or blood sugar levels to give a fuller picture of your health.
  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