C-reactive protein (mass concentration) in serum/plasma
This test measures the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood, a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation.
["CRP helps identify and monitor inflammation in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34417-6
- Short code
- ZPP RBC-mCnt
- Synonyms
- ZPP RBC-mCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is CRP Used For?
CRP is commonly used to detect signs of inflammation, which can occur due to infections, injuries, or certain medical conditions. It may also help assess the risk of future health problems, such as heart disease, especially in people with risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order a CRP test if you have symptoms of infection (like fever, pain, or swelling), if you have an ongoing health condition that causes inflammation, or as part of routine check-ups to monitor risk factors for chronic diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. If you’re taking blood from a vein, you’ll lie down for a few minutes afterward to prevent dizziness.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CRP
Frequently asked questions
CRP is a useful marker because it rises quickly in response to inflammation, helping doctors track how your body is healing from an injury or illness. High levels may signal an infection, autoimmune condition, or other inflammatory diseases, guiding treatment decisions.
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Yes, diet, exercise, and stress management can influence CRP levels. Reducing inflammation through healthy habits may lower CRP, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
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