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C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity measurement

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

This test measures a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation, helping doctors assess low-level inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["hs-CRP helps track subtle inflammation that may not show up on other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81692-6
Short code
MSH-2 Ag Ca spec Ql ImStn
Synonyms
MSH-2 Ag Ca spec Ql ImStn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-stain
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 hs-CRP Matters

High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is a blood test that detects very small amounts of a protein called C-reactive protein. This protein rises when your body has mild inflammation, which can occur with infections, injuries, or chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease. Unlike standard CRP tests, hs-CRP can pick up even small amounts of inflammation that might not be obvious otherwise.

How It’s Used

Doctors often use hs-CRP to monitor people at higher risk for heart disease, track chronic conditions, or check for signs of inflammation after surgery or illness. It’s sometimes used alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions.

What to Expect During the Test

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually in a doctor’s office or lab. The test is quick and requires no special preparation, though you may want to avoid strenuous activity before it.

Common Reasons for Testing

Your doctor may order hs-CRP if you have risk factors for heart disease, symptoms of inflammation, or if you’re recovering from an illness. It can also help evaluate conditions like autoimmune diseases or infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does a high hs-CRP level mean?
A high hs-CRP level suggests inflammation is present, which could signal an underlying health issue like infection, autoimmune disease, or cardiovascular risk. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re used alongside other tests and symptoms.
What does a low hs-CRP level mean?
A low hs-CRP level typically means your body isn’t showing signs of mild inflammation at the moment. But this doesn’t guarantee you’re completely healthy—other factors may still contribute to inflammation.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need hs-CRP testing based on your health status, risk factors, and treatment plan. Follow-up tests may be scheduled every few months or as needed.
  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