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C-reactive protein, serum/plasma concentration (high-sensitivity)

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

This test measures a protein in your blood that rises when your body is fighting inflammation, infection, or injury.

Quick summary

["hs-CRP helps track inflammation levels for conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10245-9
Short code
O2 Ct MPA-sCnc
Synonyms
O2 Ct MPA-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order hs-CRP to monitor chronic inflammation, assess risk for heart problems, or check for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. It’s often used alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

How the Results Are Used

Results help doctors compare your inflammation levels over time. Higher than normal results may signal an active inflammatory process, while stable or low levels suggest your body is managing inflammation well.

Common Conditions Monitored

hs-CRP is commonly used to evaluate risk for cardiovascular disease, track inflammatory diseases, or diagnose conditions like sepsis or infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: hs-CRP serves as a biomarker for systemic inflammation, aiding in risk stratification for cardiovascular events, autoimmune diseases, and post-surgical or trauma-related inflammation. It’s not diagnostic on its own but supports broader clinical judgment.

Short name

hs-CRP

Frequently asked questions

What does a high hs-CRP level mean?
A high hs-CRP level suggests increased inflammation in your body, which could be linked to infections, autoimmune diseases, or conditions like heart disease. Your doctor will consider this alongside other factors to guide further evaluation.
Can diet or exercise affect hs-CRP levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and smoking can influence inflammation. Eating heart-healthy foods, staying active, and avoiding smoking may help lower hs-CRP levels over time.
Is hs-CRP the same as a general infection test?
No, hs-CRP measures inflammation broadly, not specifically infections. Tests like white blood cell count or specific antibody tests are used to identify infections or infections-related inflammation separately.
  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