C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity measurement (serum/plasma)

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order a high-sensitivity CRP test to evaluate your risk for heart disease, monitor chronic inflammatory conditions, or check for signs of infection or inflammation that aren’t easily detected with standard tests. It’s sometimes used in combination with other tests to guide treatment decisions.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is placed in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s typically over quickly. No special preparation is needed.

What Does the Test Measure?

High-sensitivity CRP measures very small amounts of CRP in your blood. CRP is a marker of inflammation, meaning it rises when your body responds to injury, infection, or other stressors. This test is particularly sensitive and can detect low levels of inflammation that might not be picked up by standard CRP tests.

What Might Affect Results?

Several factors can influence CRP levels, including recent illness, infection, injury, stress, certain medications (like steroids), or chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease. Smoking, obesity, or poor diet may also affect results. It’s important to discuss your medical history and any recent activities with your healthcare provider.