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Serum/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, often used to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or post-surgery recovery."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53144-2
Short code
GH 75M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 75M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of inflammation, monitor chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, evaluate infection risk, or assess how well you’re healing after surgery or injury.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous activity or recent infections 24 hours before testing. Fasted or non-fasted states are generally acceptable for CRP.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Higher levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or an immune response. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your health history and symptoms.

Common Conditions Monitored

Elevated CRP is often used to guide treatment for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or to assess response to treatments like steroids or biologics.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CRP is a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation. While it doesn’t pinpoint the cause of inflammation, it helps identify whether inflammation is active and guides decisions about further testing or treatment adjustments. Chronic elevations may signal underlying conditions requiring long-term management.

Short name

CRP Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present in your body, which could be due to infection, an autoimmune condition, or other inflammatory processes. Your doctor will use these results along with other tests and symptoms to determine the next steps.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your medical needs. Some patients may need CRP checked monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on their condition, treatment plan, or symptoms.
Can lifestyle changes affect CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, smoking, and stress can influence CRP levels. Reducing inflammation through healthy habits may lower CRP, but results vary by individual. Always discuss lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider.
  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