Understanding your C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP) results
C-reactive protein (CRP) is made by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. Two versions of the test are used. Standard CRP detects the larger rises seen with infections and inflammatory conditions. High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) measures low levels more precisely and is used when assessing cardiovascular risk. CRP rises soon after an infection or injury and falls again as it resolves, so doctors also use it to follow an illness over time.
The ranges on this page are commonly quoted adult reference ranges. Laboratories set their own, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges
>>>| Parameter | Reference range | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| hs-CRP, band often labelled lower cardiovascular risk | < 1.0 | mg/L | |
| hs-CRP, band often labelled average cardiovascular risk | 1.0–3.0 | mg/L | |
| hs-CRP, band often labelled higher cardiovascular risk | > 3.0 | mg/L | Read only when there is no current infection or illness |
| Standard CRP | < 10 | mg/L | Higher values are seen with infection and inflammation |
What a high C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP) result can mean
A raised standard CRP shows that there is inflammation somewhere in the body, without showing where or why. Bacterial infections and major tissue injury tend to produce the largest rises, and viral infections smaller ones. A raised hs-CRP, measured when a person is well, indicates long-term low-grade inflammation, which is associated with cardiovascular risk and is often seen with excess weight, type 2 diabetes and physical inactivity.
What a low C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP) result can mean
A low CRP indicates little or no inflammation and is the expected finding in a healthy person. When an infection is suspected and CRP stays low, a bacterial cause is less likely.
How a doctor reads the result
A doctor will usually interpret CRP alongside symptoms, temperature, a full blood count and other findings, because the test is not specific to any one condition. For hs-CRP, the result is weighed with cholesterol, blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors. Discuss the result with your doctor.
Follow-up a doctor may arrange
A doctor may repeat CRP to see whether it is rising or falling, and may order other tests to find the source of inflammation. For hs-CRP, a doctor may repeat the test when you are well and review your overall cardiovascular risk.
Related tests
>>>C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP): preparation
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood. Zavis has no published price for the CRP test. The services that publish prices list standard CRP and high-sensitivity CRP as separate tests at different prices, so Zavis shows no single price for this test. Ask the lab for its price before you book.
More about C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP)Frequently asked questions
What are the commonly quoted reference ranges for C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP)?
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges are: hs-CRP, band often labelled lower cardiovascular risk: < 1.0 mg/L; hs-CRP, band often labelled average cardiovascular risk: 1.0–3.0 mg/L; hs-CRP, band often labelled higher cardiovascular risk: > 3.0 mg/L; Standard CRP: < 10 mg/L. Laboratories set their own ranges, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
What can a high C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP) result mean?
A raised standard CRP shows that there is inflammation somewhere in the body, without showing where or why. Bacterial infections and major tissue injury tend to produce the largest rises, and viral infections smaller ones. A raised hs-CRP, measured when a person is well, indicates long-term low-grade inflammation, which is associated with cardiovascular risk and is often seen with excess weight, type 2 diabetes and physical inactivity.
Is fasting needed for C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP)?
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
How often are C-Reactive Protein (CRP / hs-CRP) results rechecked?
There is no single interval that suits everyone. A doctor can advise whether and how often to test, based on your health, any treatment and your earlier results.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your full clinical picture, symptoms, and medical history. If you have concerns about your test results, always consult a licensed healthcare professional. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard professional medical guidance because of information on this page.