C-reactive Protein Test (CRP Test)

What is CRP test?

A CRP test, commonly known as a C reactive protein blood test or C-reactive protein test or crp blood test, is a blood examination that measures the amount of C-reactive protein in the patient’s blood. This is a type of protein, produced by the liver in response to inflammation. An excess level of high CRP can indicate various health issues, such as inflammatory diseases and infections. 

High CRP level:

A high level of CRP indicates inflammation in the body

Causes of High CRP Level

multiple factors can be a cause of high crp level, including infections, injuries, autoimmune disorders, or chronic health conditions.

Low CRP level:

A low CRP level typically suggests that there is minimal inflammation in the patient’s body, which is generally a positive indication of your health.

However, it is essential to understand that a low CRP level does not always guarantee the absence of inflammation. In certain conditions, such as specific autoimmune diseases, there may not be a significant rise in CRP levels or levels maybe in crp normal range i.e. neither high nor low.

CRP Normal Range

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) normal range is generally evaluated to be less than 1.0mg/L. Although, slight variation on the ranges may occur, depending on the testing procedure. It is essential to consider consulting with the patient’s healthcare provider for interpreting accurate CRP test results and for further treatment and medications. Usually the CRP normal range is mentioned in each report for easy interpretation. 

When to Get a CRP Blood Test Done?

• Detect inflammatory diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease can be signalled through increased CRP levels.
• Assess inflammation: Higher CRP levels generally indicate the severity of inflammation.
• Monitor the success of treatment: If a treatment is effectively reducing inflammation, it can be observed through CRP levels.
• Identify infections: Rapid increases in CRP levels may occur in response to bacterial or fungal infections.

The high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test detects individuals at a higher risk of heart disease, even in the absence of other risk factors.

Risks and conditions for which a patient's health provider might recommend a CRP test-

• Bone and fungal infections
• Autoimmune diseases (lupus)
• Heart disease risk
• Lung disease
• Pelvic inflammatory disease or inflammatory bowel disease
• Cardiac arrest

What can we understand from CRP tests?

• An elevated C-reactive protein level indicates the occurrence of inflammation in certain parts of the patient’s body.
• A higher CRP level evaluates a high-level intensity of inflammation.
• C-reactive protein levels can be monitored to analyse the effectiveness of treatments and medications for inflammatory conditions.

What sample type is needed for the CRP test?

The CRP test typically requires a blood sample.

What Preparation Is Required by the Patient for a C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test?

Generally, no special preparation is needed for a CRP test. The patient can drink and eat normally before the test.

What are the indications, and what should be done?

The below-mentioned symptoms occur with a high, or extremely low-level CRP, for which you should consult a health provider for necessary treatment and medications-

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Indigestion
• Weight loss
• Insomnia
• Loss of appetite

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’S)