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High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) in Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, helping assess low-level inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["Measures inflammation, often used to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98005-2
Short code
HLA Class I & II Low res
Synonyms
HLA Class I & II Low res
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
low-resolution
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

What Is High-Sensitivity CRP Used For?

High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is primarily used to evaluate the presence of mild to moderate inflammation in the body. It can help doctors assess risk for conditions like cardiovascular disease, especially when combined with other risk factors. It may also be used to monitor treatment effectiveness in inflammatory diseases.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect hs-CRP levels.

What Does a High or Low Result Mean?

Results may indicate inflammation but do not diagnose a specific condition. High levels could suggest increased risk for heart disease or other inflammatory disorders, while low levels may indicate minimal inflammation. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Common Conditions Monitored With hs-CRP

hs-CRP is often used to monitor chronic inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, or to evaluate cardiovascular risk in patients with no obvious symptoms of inflammation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: hs-CRP plays a key role in identifying individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular events, guiding preventive care, and assessing response to anti-inflammatory treatments. It complements other tests like cholesterol and blood pressure measurements.

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order an hs-CRP test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart problems. It may also be used to monitor chronic inflammatory conditions or evaluate treatment progress.
What are typical reference ranges for hs-CRP?
Reference ranges vary by lab and individual health status. Low levels (typically below 1 mg/L) suggest minimal inflammation, while higher levels (above 3 mg/L) may indicate increased risk. Values between 1 and 3 mg/L are considered intermediate and may warrant further evaluation.
Can lifestyle changes affect hs-CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, smoking, and stress can influence inflammation levels. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking may help lower hs-CRP levels over time.
  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