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Serum or plasma mass concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP)

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

This test measures the amount of C-reactive protein in your blood, a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation or infection.

Quick summary

["CRP helps track inflammation levels in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77752-4
Short code
EDDP CtO Ur Scn-mCnc
Synonyms
EDDP CtO Ur Scn-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or infections, or evaluate how your body is responding to treatment for certain illnesses.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

Elevated CRP levels often indicate inflammation, infections, or autoimmune conditions. Very low levels may suggest no active inflammation, though they don’t always mean you’re healthy. Results are interpreted based on your overall health and medical history.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it is processed into serum or plasma for testing. You may be asked to fast before the test, depending on your provider’s instructions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is commonly used to monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, heart disease, and infections such as pneumonia or sepsis. It can also help assess the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP Mass Concentration

Frequently asked questions

What does a CRP test tell me about my health?
A CRP test provides information about inflammation in your body but isn’t a standalone diagnosis. It helps your healthcare provider assess whether inflammation is present and guide treatment decisions.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, as fasting may be required for some tests. Generally, you can drink water unless otherwise directed.
  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