C-reactive protein (CRP) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) probe
This test measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, helping doctors assess your body’s inflammatory state.
["High CRP levels may signal inflammation, often used to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or heart disease risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14561-5
- Short code
- M tb DNA CSF Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- M tb DNA CSF Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why CRP Matters in Your Health
CRP is a marker of inflammation, meaning it rises when your body fights infections, heals injuries, or responds to conditions like arthritis or heart problems. While CRP itself isn’t a direct cause of illness, it helps doctors track how your body is responding to treatments or underlying conditions.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is analyzed using HPLC with a TMB probe to detect CRP levels. This method is precise and often used for high-sensitivity testing to detect even small amounts of CRP.
Common Uses for CRP Testing
Doctors may order CRP tests to monitor chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, check for signs of infection (e.g., pneumonia, sepsis), or evaluate heart disease risk before or after procedures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid strenuous activity or certain medications (like NSAIDs) that could affect inflammation levels. Your blood will be drawn from a vein, similar to other blood tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but they can also be normal if you have recent trauma, surgery, or other acute stressors. Low or normal CRP levels may suggest minimal inflammation, but they don’t rule out conditions like infections or autoimmune diseases. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
CRP (High-Sensitivity)
Frequently asked questions
Will CRP levels change with diet or exercise?
Can CRP test results be affected by medications?
What does a high CRP level mean?
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