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

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation in your body, even when you don’t feel sick. It’s sometimes used to monitor conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or after surgery to see how your body is healing. It can also help track how well certain treatments are working.

What to Expect

A small needle will be used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it shouldn’t cause much discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing. Results are usually ready within a few days.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal CRP levels may indicate inflammation, which can be caused by infections, injuries, or certain medical conditions. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest reduced inflammation, but this isn’t always the case. Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to assess inflammation in conditions like coronary artery disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or after procedures such as heart bypass surgery. It can also help evaluate responses to treatments for autoimmune diseases or infections.