C-reactive protein (high-sensitivity) concentration, plasma
This test measures a protein in your blood that rises when inflammation is present, often used to assess general inflammation or risk of heart disease.
["hs-CRP helps track inflammation and may indicate future health risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42439-0
- Short code
- XR Neck AP
- Synonyms
- XR Neck AP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- CPT
- 82553
- 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 this test to check for signs of inflammation in your body, monitor conditions like arthritis or heart disease, or evaluate risk factors for cardiovascular events. High levels can signal ongoing inflammation, which may require further investigation or treatment adjustments.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
Elevated levels often suggest inflammation, infection, or autoimmune conditions. Lower-than-normal levels may indicate no active inflammation, but they don’t rule out other health concerns. Results are interpreted with your full medical picture in mind.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The plasma portion is tested for the protein using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect even small amounts.
What Should You Expect Before the Test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous activity or intense exercise 24 hours before testing. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know to avoid unnecessary bleeding during the draw.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Elevated hs-CRP is a marker for systemic inflammation and has been linked to increased cardiovascular risk. It’s often used alongside other tests (like cholesterol levels) to guide preventive care or treatment decisions for chronic conditions.
Short name
hs-CRP (plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What causes hs-CRP levels to change?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect hs-CRP results?
Is hs-CRP the same as CRP in urine?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy