🔬 Inflammation & Other

CRP: What It Means for Your Health

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. It rises rapidly (within hours) during infection, injury, or inflammatory conditions and falls quickly when the stimulus resolves. High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) measures lower levels and is used to assess cardiovascular disease risk. CRP is one of the most widely used and reliable markers of systemic inflammation.

Full Name
C-Reactive Protein (CRP/hs-CRP)
Normal Range
0–3 mg/L
Also Known As
C-Reactive Protein, hs-CRP, High Sensitivity CRP

Reference Range

LowNormal: 0–3 mg/LHigh

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.

What Is CRP?

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. It rises rapidly (within hours) during infection, injury, or inflammatory conditions and falls quickly when the stimulus resolves. High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) measures lower levels and is used to assess cardiovascular disease risk. CRP is one of the most widely used and reliable markers of systemic inflammation.

Commonly included in:

CRP TestInflammation PanelCardiovascular Risk Panel

What Does High CRP Mean?

Above 3 mg/L

Elevated CRP indicates inflammation from any cause: infection (bacterial, viral, fungal), autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, IBD), tissue injury, cancer, obesity, or cardiovascular disease. For cardiovascular risk: hs-CRP below 1.0 mg/L is low risk, 1.0-3.0 is moderate risk, and above 3.0 is high risk (when not explained by acute illness). Very high CRP (above 10 mg/L) usually indicates acute infection.

What Does Low CRP Mean?

Below 0 mg/L

Low CRP is normal and indicates absence of significant systemic inflammation. Values close to zero are typical in healthy individuals.

Related Biomarkers in Inflammation & Other

ESR
Non-specific inflammation marker measuring how fast red blood cells settle.
Range: 0–20 mm/hr

Track Your CRP Over Time

Upload your blood test results to Hemoly and see how your CRP levels change over time. Get trend analysis, educational insights, and a personal health timeline.

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.