C-reactive protein (CRP) by nephelometry (high-sensitivity)
This blood test measures a protein called C-reactive protein, which your body produces in response to inflammation. It helps assess low-level inflammation that may not be obvious from other tests.
["High-sensitivity CRP helps track subtle inflammation, often used alongside other tests for heart disease or autoimmune conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38283-8
- Short code
- LPT 9.67 ug/mL TT Bld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- LPT 9.67 ug/mL TT Bld-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- 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 monitor chronic inflammation, evaluate risk for heart disease, or check for signs of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases. It’s sometimes used in research or follow-up for patients with known inflammatory conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Higher levels may indicate inflammation, but they don’t always pinpoint the cause. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to assess inflammation in conditions like cardiovascular disease, infections, or chronic illnesses. It can also help guide treatment decisions for conditions like lupus or inflammatory bowel disease.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high CRP level mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long does it take to get my results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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