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C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, serum/plasma

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

This test measures the level of C-reactive protein, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["CRP helps doctors identify and monitor inflammation, often used to check for infections, autoimmune conditions, or other health issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41216-3
Short code
YFV IgM Ser Ql
Synonyms
YFV IgM Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 a CRP test to monitor conditions like infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections), check for signs of inflammation in autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or assess risk for heart disease. It can also help evaluate responses to treatments or track healing progress.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. If you’re having blood drawn, you may want to drink plenty of fluids the day of the test to help reduce discomfort. Avoid smoking or strenuous activity for 30 minutes before the draw if instructed.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s generally quick and painless. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Higher levels may indicate inflammation or infection, while lower levels suggest minimal or no inflammation. Your results will be interpreted by your provider in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CRP (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get CRP test results?
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on your lab’s processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results to discuss them further.
Can diet or medications affect CRP levels?
Dietary factors like a high-fat or high-sugar diet may temporarily raise CRP levels, but the effect is usually short-term. Certain medications, such as steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs, can also lower CRP. Always discuss any medications or dietary changes with your provider before the test.
Is CRP the same as a complete blood count (CBC) test?
No, CRP is a specific blood test that measures inflammation, while a CBC evaluates your blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). Both tests serve different purposes and are often ordered together for comprehensive health assessment.
  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