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C-Reactive Protein (CRP) by Turbidimetry (High-Sensitivity)

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

This blood test measures a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation, helping detect or monitor conditions causing inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["High sensitivity CRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not be obvious otherwise."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37865-3
Short code
Deprecated Sinuses XR 1V Ltd
Synonyms
Deprecated Sinuses XR 1V Ltd
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
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

Your healthcare provider may order a high-sensitivity CRP test to check for signs of inflammation in conditions like heart disease, autoimmune disorders, infections, or after surgery. It can also help monitor treatment progress for certain inflammatory conditions.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is analyzed in a lab using a method called turbidimetry, which detects the presence of CRP by measuring how it scatters light.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but let your provider know if you’re taking blood thinners or have any allergies. Avoid strenuous activity 24 hours before the test.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll lie down comfortably while a healthcare professional inserts a needle into your arm. The blood is drawn into a tube, and the process usually takes a few minutes. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick and painless.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High-sensitivity CRP is a marker of systemic inflammation. Elevated levels may indicate conditions like cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory or infectious processes. It’s particularly useful for assessing risk in people without obvious symptoms of inflammation.

Short name

High-Sensitivity CRP

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
What does a high or low CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present, which could be due to infection, injury, autoimmune disease, or other conditions. A low level usually means minimal inflammation, but it doesn’t rule out all causes. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test. No fasting is required, unlike some other blood tests.
  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