Test library
C Reactive Protein Test
The CRP Test measures C-reactive protein, a marker the liver releases in response to inflammation in the body. It is used to help detect and monitor inflammation from infection, injury, or a range of other conditions.
Order CRP Test (C-Reactive Protein)
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order CRP Test (C-Reactive Protein)- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The CRP Test measures C-reactive protein in the blood. CRP is produced by the liver and rises when the body is dealing with inflammation, which can come from an infection, an injury, or an ongoing inflammatory condition. The test is a general indicator rather than a specific diagnosis, so it is usually interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests.
What this test measures
C-reactive protein is one of several acute-phase proteins the liver releases in response to inflammation. Its level can climb quickly when the immune system is activated and fall again as inflammation resolves. Because CRP responds to many triggers, it is best understood as a broad signal that something is happening rather than a marker of one particular disease.
The test requires a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein at the arm. Standard CRP testing measures the general level of the protein, while a high-sensitivity version detects smaller differences in the low range. The standard assay is used to look for or follow active inflammation, such as that caused by infection, injury, or an inflammatory disorder.
Clinicians order CRP to help detect inflammation, to monitor a known condition over time, or to see how the body is responding to an illness. It is often combined with other tests, such as a complete blood count or erythrocyte sedimentation rate. A single value rarely stands alone, and a healthcare provider interprets it with the person's history.
- C-reactive protein (CRP)
- High-sensitivity CRP when the cardiac version is ordered
- Complete blood count when paired
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) when paired
- White blood cell count when paired
- Serum protein electrophoresis when paired
Why people order this test
- Look for inflammation when symptoms are unexplained
- Monitor a known inflammatory or infectious condition
- Follow up on fever or signs of infection
- Track how inflammation changes over time
- Screen for inflammation before a planned procedure
- Assess an inflammatory response with a provider
How to prepare
No fasting is required for a standard CRP test. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually at the arm. If the test is bundled with other panels, follow any additional preparation instructions supplied with the order.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. A higher level usually points to inflammation somewhere in the body, but it does not identify the cause or location. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the value with symptoms and other test results.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does an elevated CRP mean?
An elevated level suggests inflammation is present, but it does not show where the inflammation is or what is causing it. A healthcare provider evaluates it with other findings.
What is the difference between standard CRP and hs-CRP?
Standard CRP is used to look for or monitor general inflammation. High-sensitivity CRP measures small differences in the low range and is often used to assess cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is not required for a standard CRP test. Follow any additional instructions if it is combined with other panels.
Can CRP be normal when I feel unwell?
Yes. CRP can be normal in some conditions, especially those that do not cause a strong inflammatory response. It is one piece of a larger evaluation.
Can exercise affect CRP?
Strenuous activity can temporarily raise inflammatory markers, so some clinicians suggest avoiding heavy exercise right before the test unless told otherwise.
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Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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