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C-reactive protein (CRP) by turbidimetry, serum/plasma

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

This test measures a protein called C-reactive protein, which your body produces in response to inflammation. It’s often used to check for signs of infection, injury, or other inflammatory conditions.

Quick summary

["CRP helps track inflammation, guiding decisions about treatment or further testing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
94837-2
Short code
DENV1+2+3+4 RNA Amn Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
DENV1+2+3+4 RNA Amn Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to monitor conditions like arthritis, infections, or heart disease. It can also help assess how well your body is responding to treatment for inflammation or infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid strenuous activity or excessive stress before testing.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but they can also be raised due to other factors like fever, stress, or certain medications. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Common Causes of Elevated CRP

Elevated CRP can be caused by infections (like pneumonia or urinary tract infections), autoimmune diseases (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), heart disease, or even minor injuries. It may also appear temporarily after surgery or trauma.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CRP plays a key role in identifying and managing inflammatory conditions, helping doctors tailor treatments to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.

Short name

CRP (High-Sensitivity)

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to avoid certain foods before this test?
No specific diet is required, but fasting for 8–12 hours before blood draw is often recommended for more accurate results.
Can CRP levels change based on my activity level?
Yes, physical stress, intense exercise, or emotional stress can temporarily raise CRP levels. Your doctor will consider these factors when reviewing your results.
What if my CRP levels are consistently high?
If your CRP levels remain elevated, your doctor may recommend further testing (like blood cultures or imaging) to find the underlying cause or adjust treatment plans.
  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