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C-reactive protein (CRP) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for mass concentration measurement

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

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein in your blood. CRP is a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation, infection, or injury.

Quick summary

["CRP helps your doctor assess inflammation in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5987-3
Short code
tPA PPP Chro-mCnc
Synonyms
tPA PPP Chro-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
chromo
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a CRP test to monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or inflammation. It can also help track how well treatments are working or check for signs of complications after surgery or illness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually causes only minor discomfort.

What the Test Results Mean

Higher CRP levels often indicate inflammation, but results alone don’t diagnose a specific condition. Your doctor will compare your results with your medical history and other tests to understand what’s happening in your body.

Common Conditions Monitored

CRP is commonly used to monitor conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, infections (like pneumonia or sepsis), and other inflammatory disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CRP plays a key role in identifying and managing inflammation-related health issues. While it doesn’t pinpoint the exact cause of inflammation, it helps guide treatment decisions and assess disease activity over time.

Short name

CRP (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high CRP level mean?
A high CRP level suggests inflammation is present in your body, which can be caused by infections, injuries, autoimmune diseases, or other health issues. Your doctor will review the results with your symptoms and other tests to determine the next steps.
Can CRP levels change with diet or exercise?
Diet and exercise can sometimes influence inflammation, but CRP levels are primarily a reflection of your body’s current inflammatory response. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes if inflammation appears linked to habits like diet or activity levels.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of CRP testing depends on your health condition and treatment plan. Your doctor will determine how often to check your levels based on your specific needs, such as monitoring chronic diseases or responding to treatments.
  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