C-reactive protein (CRP) measured by high-sensitivity immunoassay
This blood test measures a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation. It helps assess low-level inflammation that may not be detected by other tests.
["High CRP levels may signal subtle inflammation, useful for monitoring conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23271-0
- Short code
- M cap caprip rRNA Spec Ql Probe
- Synonyms
- M cap caprip rRNA Spec Ql Probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe
- 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 This Test Matters
CRP is a marker of inflammation, often used to track conditions where inflammation plays a role—even when symptoms aren’t obvious. High-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) is particularly sensitive and can detect mild inflammation that might otherwise go unnoticed.
How It Works
Your blood sample is tested using a specialized immunoassay method that detects tiny amounts of CRP. This test is designed to pick up very low levels of inflammation, which can be important for certain health checks.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid strenuous activity or infections before the test, as these can temporarily raise CRP levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). While reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or other health concerns. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein)
Frequently asked questions
CRP is commonly used to monitor chronic inflammation in conditions like cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or after surgeries. It can also guide treatment decisions for conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders.
What does a high CRP level mean?
Can diet or exercise affect CRP levels?
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