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hs-CRP: a window into inflammation
Inflammation plays a role in how plaque develops. The high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test picks up low levels of inflammation. It's useful context, with some important limits.
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Text description of this 3D model
A coral-colored C-reactive protein molecule made of five identical rounded subunits arranged in a ring with a hole in the center. In the 'Lower level' view, a few small CRP molecules float through a transparent blood vessel with red blood cells. In the 'Higher level' view, many more CRP molecules fill the vessel.
CRP is a protein made by the liver. It's built from five identical subunits arranged in a ring.
Most of the time CRP circulates at low levels. The hs-CRP test is sensitive enough to measure these small amounts.
When there's inflammation, the liver releases more CRP and the blood level rises. hs-CRP can detect small, lasting increases, but it can't tell where the inflammation is coming from.
What to know
- “High-sensitivity” means the test can measure the low CRP levels relevant to heart-risk assessment, not only the large spikes seen with infection.
- For heart-risk purposes, results are commonly grouped as lower (under 1 mg/L), average (1–3 mg/L) and higher (above 3 mg/L) relative risk.
- A recent cold, infection, injury or flare of a chronic condition can raise CRP for a while. Clinicians may repeat a high result after you've recovered. Very high results usually point to a cause other than heart risk.
- The 2018 AHA/ACC cholesterol guideline lists an hs-CRP of 2.0 mg/L or higher as a “risk-enhancing factor” in certain adults.
What this test can do
- Add information about low-grade inflammation
- Help put cholesterol results in context
- Be compared over time
What it can't do on its own
- Show where inflammation is or what's causing it
- Diagnose heart disease
- Give a reliable reading during a recent illness
Questions to bring to your clinician
- “Does inflammation change how we look at my heart risk?”
- “Should I wait to test if I've been sick recently?”
- “Would you repeat a high result?”
Want Inflammation Included in Your Heart Check?
hs-CRP is included in four A-List panels. The Standard Heart Check, our most popular, pairs it with a lipid panel, homocysteine, CMP, CBC and urinalysis.
“Book This Panel” opens the secure Stan Store checkout for the Standard Heart Check ($299), where you choose your appointment time and review the total before paying.
Panels that include this test
- Basic Heart Check$219
- Standard Heart Check$299
- Complete Heart Check + Lp(a)$339
- Statin Check-Up Panel$319
Every listed panel price includes the required lab order, standard mobile blood collection, collection supplies, and laboratory testing/processing. Only optional upgrades you select (such as the $60 Vein Finder) cost extra. You'll review your selections and final total in Stan Store before paying.
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Educational only. This page explains what a test measures. It does not interpret individual results, diagnose a condition, or recommend treatment. A qualified healthcare professional can help decide which tests make sense for you and what your results mean. Do not change medicines or preparation instructions based on this page.
Sources: Mayo Clinic: C-reactive protein test · MedlinePlus: C-reactive protein test · American Heart Association: How to get your cholesterol tested