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

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

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

Quick summary

["hs-CRP helps track subtle inflammation, often used alongside other tests for heart disease or autoimmune conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37226-8
Short code
CT TMJ
Synonyms
CT TMJ
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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 hs-CRP to check for signs of inflammation that might not be obvious from other tests. It’s often used in people at higher risk for heart disease, certain autoimmune disorders, or after an injury to monitor healing.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not given in a single range—your doctor will interpret them based on your health history and other factors. Higher levels may suggest inflammation, while lower levels indicate minimal or no inflammation.

Common Reasons for Testing

Common reasons include evaluating heart disease risk, monitoring conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or assessing recovery after surgery or trauma.

How Is the Test Done?

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

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does my hs-CRP level tell my doctor?
Your doctor will compare your hs-CRP level to your overall health picture, including symptoms, other test results, and medical history. For example, consistently high levels may prompt further evaluation for conditions like cardiovascular disease or chronic inflammation.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your medical needs. Some people get it yearly, while others may need it more often if they have ongoing health concerns or risk factors.
Can lifestyle changes affect my hs-CRP levels?
Yes! Reducing stress, improving diet (e.g., Mediterranean-style), increasing physical activity, and managing weight may lower inflammation and hs-CRP levels over time.
  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