Skip to content

C-reactive protein (CRP) by nephelometry (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation, often used to check for signs of infection, injury, or autoimmune conditions.

Quick summary

["Helps track inflammation levels in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93713-6
Short code
EBV VCA IgG Ser Donr Ql IA
Synonyms
EBV VCA IgG Ser Donr Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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 conditions like arthritis, heart disease, infections, or to check for inflammation after surgery or injury. High levels can signal an active inflammatory process, while low levels may indicate no significant inflammation is present.

What Does the Test Involve?

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

What Are Common Results?

Results are reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as your symptoms or known conditions.

How Is This Test Different from Standard CRP?

This test is considered high-sensitivity, meaning it can detect lower levels of CRP more accurately than standard tests, making it useful for early detection of subtle inflammation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: CRP is a marker of inflammation. Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or inflammatory bowel disease. It can also be used to assess response to treatment or monitor chronic conditions. However, CRP alone cannot diagnose a specific condition and should be interpreted alongside other clinical findings.

Short name

CRP (High-Sensitivity)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is likely present in your body. This could be due to infections, injuries, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory processes. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
Can CRP levels change over time?
Yes, CRP levels can fluctuate. They often rise quickly in response to acute inflammation or infection and may return to normal as the condition improves. Chronic conditions may show more stable but elevated levels over time.
Does diet or exercise affect CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and smoking can influence CRP levels. Reducing inflammation through a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking may help lower CRP levels.
  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