C-reactive protein (CRP) by nephelometry (serum/plasma)

Why CRP Matters in Your Health

CRP is often used to check for signs of inflammation, which can occur with infections (such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections), injuries, or certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease. It’s also sometimes used to evaluate how well your body is responding to treatment for these conditions.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is analyzed using a method called nephelometry, which measures how much CRP is present in your serum or plasma. This helps healthcare providers determine your inflammation level without needing a specific numeric range.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this isn’t always required. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test. The test is quick and usually done by a simple blood draw.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors order CRP tests to monitor chronic conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or kidney problems. It can also be used to check for infections, assess how well a treatment is working, or evaluate symptoms like fever, pain, or swelling.