The CRP test measures the high levels of CRP that occur in infectious diseases or tissue injuries. On the other hand, a high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) measures the chronic, low-grade inflammation that can occur in otherwise healthy individuals.

What is hs-CRP?

Common CRP, sometimes referred to as "sedimentation rate", is best known as a test to detect infections, but it also plays a role in assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. CRP stands for C-reactive protein, a protein produced in the liver and released in connection with infections (especially bacterial ones), inflammation, or various types of trauma, such as surgical procedures. Regular CRP measures the high levels of CRP that occur in infectious diseases or tissue damage, while high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) measures the chronic, low-grade inflammation present in the bodies of otherwise healthy individuals.

Why analyze hs-CRP?

Recent research has shown that chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body can be a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Cardiovascular diseases often arise due to plaque buildup in the body's large arteries, known as atherosclerosis. Despite its name, atherosclerosis is not about calcium deposits in our blood vessels, but about the accumulation of cholesterol and activated immune cells. This process is caused and exacerbated by chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body, which can be measured through high-sensitivity CRP in the blood.

How is the test conducted?

The test is a blood test that can be taken at home by using a finger prick to collect blood. You then drop the blood into a tube. The test should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis, and you receive your result digitally as soon as the laboratory has analyzed the sample. Shipping to the laboratory is included in the price.

What does a CRP test show?

A CRP test displays the level of C-reactive protein in the blood. It's used to detect and monitor inflammation in the body. The test can indicate the presence of an infection or another inflammatory process in the body.

What should a normal CRP be?

A normal CRP value for a healthy individual typically lies below 5 milligrams per liter (mg/L). The exact reference range might vary slightly between different labs and analysis methods. It's important to note that a normal CRP value does not rule out the possibility of inflammation or other disease states, but it suggests that there is no significant inflammation present.

When is CRP too high?

CRP levels can be elevated in various diseases and conditions. A general guideline is that CRP levels above 10 mg/L are considered high and indicate ongoing inflammation. However, the severity of inflammation or the disease state can influence how high CRP levels become. It's crucial to remember that the CRP result should be assessed together with the patient's symptoms and medical history to get a complete picture of the patient's health condition. Only a doctor can provide an accurate interpretation of the CRP result and assess its clinical significance for the individual.