What is high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP)?
High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) stands for C-reactive protein. A high-sensitivity CRP test can detect even low levels of inflammation in the body. The test can be used to identify low-grade (latent) inflammation that may be caused by lifestyle habits.
Why test your hs-CRP?
Measuring hs-CRP can be valuable for:
- Detect low-grade inflammation – Chronic inflammation can be linked to lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, physical inactivity and obesity.
- Monitor health status – If you have made changes to your lifestyle, such as improving your diet or increasing your physical activity, hs-CRP can help you monitor the effects on your body.
- Notice potential underlying diseases – Elevated levels can also be seen in certain long-term inflammatory conditions or autoimmune diseases.
How is the test performed?
The test is taken through a venous blood sample by healthcare professionals and analyzed in an accredited laboratory with high precision.
What can high levels of hs-CRP be due to?
- Low-grade, chronic inflammation – Can be caused by stress, obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity or other lifestyle factors.
- Acute inflammation – Infections, injuries or inflammatory diseases can lead to elevated levels.
- Autoimmune diseases – Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and inflammatory bowel disease can cause high hs-CRP values.
Interpretation of hs-CRP values
- <1 mg/L – Low level of inflammation.
- 1–3 mg/L – Moderate inflammation level.
- >3 mg/L – Elevated inflammation level, which may indicate ongoing inflammation in the body.
Note: Elevated values may also be due to a temporary infection. Therefore, it is important to take the sample at a time when you are healthy to get a more reliable picture of your inflammation level.
