The C-reactive protein (CRP) test measures the level of CRP in the blood. CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in the body.
Doctors may recommend a CRP test when investigating symptoms associated with infection, inflammatory disorders, or certain other medical conditions. Elevated CRP levels can indicate inflammation, but the test does not identify its exact location or underlying cause.
CRP levels may rise in response to bacterial or viral infections, tissue injury, autoimmune conditions, and other inflammatory processes. The level can also change as an illness develops or improves.
A CRP test generally requires a blood sample and usually does not require special preparation. However, patients should follow the laboratory's instructions if additional tests are being performed.
A high CRP result should not be interpreted as proof of a specific infection or disease. Healthcare professionals consider the result alongside symptoms, physical examination findings, and other investigations. In some situations, a high-sensitivity CRP test may be used for a different purpose, such as assessing cardiovascular risk.
The appropriate interpretation depends on the type of CRP test and the clinical context.
Explore the C-reactive protein test from Dr Lal PathLabs to learn more about inflammation testing.