C-reactive protein (CRP) with high-sensitivity immunoassay (hs-CRP)
This test measures a protein in your blood that rises in response to inflammation, helping doctors assess low-level inflammation that may not be visible in other tests.
["High-sensitivity CRP helps track subtle inflammation, often used alongside other tests for conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69073-5
- Short code
- RF Guided CN Bx
- Synonyms
- RF Guided CN Bx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rf
- CPT
- 86430
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test to monitor chronic inflammation, evaluate risk for cardiovascular events, or check for signs of infection or inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. It’s also used in screening for certain cancers or after surgery to track healing.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are typically reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Higher levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or other health issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and other tests.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to monitor conditions like coronary artery disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or after procedures such as joint replacements to ensure proper healing.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it’s generally quick and not painful. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma for testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CRP is a marker of acute-phase inflammation, meaning it increases in response to injury, infection, or autoimmune activity. High-sensitivity CRP is particularly useful for detecting mild to moderate inflammation that might not be detected by less sensitive tests. It can help identify individuals at higher risk for future health issues, such as heart disease or certain cancers, by providing insight into underlying chronic inflammation.
Short name
High-sensitivity CRP
Frequently asked questions
What does a high CRP level mean?
The frequency depends on your medical needs. Some people get it yearly for cardiovascular risk assessment, while others may need it more often if they have a chronic condition like rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease.
Avoid strenuous exercise or taking anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) 24 hours before the test, as they can affect results. Follow your provider’s instructions for any other preparations.
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