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C-reactive protein (CRP) – Serum/plasma concentration (high-sensitivity)

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

This test measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, helping assess low-grade inflammation or infection in your blood.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to monitor subtle signs of inflammation in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12263-0
Short code
Deprecated EBV EA-D Ab CSF Ql IF
Synonyms
Deprecated EBV EA-D Ab CSF Ql IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Healthcare providers use hs-CRP to evaluate risk for conditions like heart disease, especially in people without obvious symptoms of inflammation. It may also help track how well treatments for conditions like arthritis or infections are working.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are not typically given in absolute numbers but are interpreted in relation to your overall health and medical history. Higher levels may suggest increased risk for certain health issues, while lower levels indicate reduced inflammation.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect CRP levels.

What Can Affect Results?

Factors like recent illness, infection, stress, smoking, or certain medications (e.g., steroids) can temporarily raise CRP levels. Avoiding these factors for a few days before testing can improve accuracy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does a high hs-CRP level mean?
A high hs-CRP level may indicate an increased risk of inflammation-related health problems, such as heart disease or certain autoimmune conditions. Your healthcare provider will consider this alongside other factors to interpret the result.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I lower my hs-CRP level naturally?
Yes! Lifestyle changes like improving diet (e.g., Mediterranean diet), increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress can help reduce inflammation and potentially lower 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