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C-reactive protein (high-sensitivity) in serum/plasma

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

This test measures a protein your body produces in response to inflammation, helping doctors assess low-level inflammation or risk of future health issues.

Quick summary

["hsCRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up in other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
91543-9
Short code
MOG Ab CSF Ql CBA IFA
Synonyms
MOG Ab CSF Ql CBA IFA
Category
glucose
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
cba-ifa
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to monitor chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, or to check for early signs of inflammation after surgery, injury, or illness. It can also be part of routine cardiovascular risk assessments.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are not given in absolute numbers but are compared to general reference ranges for your age and health status. Higher levels may indicate inflammation or increased risk of conditions like heart disease.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect the protein.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated levels may be due to infections, injuries, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. Lower levels might suggest reduced inflammation but could also be normal depending on your health status.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: hsCRP serves as a marker for systemic inflammation, aiding in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk, monitoring chronic inflammatory diseases, and guiding treatment decisions. It complements other tests like cholesterol levels or blood pressure by providing insight into ongoing inflammation that may not be visible through other means.

Short name

hsCRP

Frequently asked questions

What does a high hsCRP level mean?
A high hsCRP level suggests your body is experiencing inflammation. This could be due to an infection, injury, or an underlying condition like heart disease or autoimmune disorders. Your doctor will consider this result alongside other tests and your medical history to determine the next steps.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will decide how often you need this test based on your health condition and treatment plan. Some people may need it yearly or more frequently if they have ongoing health concerns like heart disease or diabetes.
Can lifestyle changes affect hsCRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as improving diet, increasing physical activity, managing stress, and quitting smoking can often lower inflammation and hsCRP levels. Your doctor may recommend specific changes tailored to your needs.
  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