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Serum or plasma mass concentration of C-reactive protein

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
46752-2
Short code
MCADD/GA 2 DBS-Imp
Synonyms
MCADD/GA 2 DBS-Imp
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

What Is C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Used For?

CRP is often checked to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or after surgery to see how your body is healing. It can also help assess risk for heart disease or other inflammatory conditions.

How Is the CRP Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure CRP levels.

What Does a High CRP Level Mean?

Elevated CRP levels may indicate inflammation, infections, or other health issues. However, a single high reading doesn’t always mean a serious problem—your doctor will consider other factors.

What Does a Low CRP Level Mean?

Low CRP levels usually mean there is little to no inflammation in your body. But they can also occur in people with very mild or controlled inflammatory conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CRP plays a key role in identifying and managing inflammatory diseases, infections, and cardiovascular risks. It’s often used alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions.

Short name

CRP Mass Concentration

Frequently asked questions

Why might my CRP test be done?
Your doctor may order a CRP test to check for infections, monitor chronic conditions like arthritis, evaluate heart disease risk, or assess how well you’re responding to treatment for inflammation.
What are common reference ranges for CRP?
Reference ranges vary by lab and individual health status. Typically, normal levels are below 3 mg/L, but doctors may use different thresholds depending on the clinical situation.
Can lifestyle changes affect CRP levels?
Yes, diet, exercise, and stress management can influence inflammation. Smoking, poor diet, and obesity are known to raise CRP levels, while healthy habits may lower them.
  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