Quick highlights
- Quick screening indicator for inflammation (threshold-based)
- Non-specific—does not identify the cause of inflammation
- Useful alongside CBC and clinical examination
- No fasting; simple serum blood test
- May be used when a yes/no elevation is adequate
- Quantitative CRP is preferred for precise monitoring
- Can be elevated after injury, surgery, or infection
- Home blood collection available in many service areas
- Useful for clinician-directed follow-up decisions
- SEO coverage: CRP qualitative test, inflammation blood test, C reactive protein test
What’s included
Preparation
- Book blood draw (home or lab)
- No fasting required unless combined tests need fasting
- Disclose recent infection, injury, surgery, and chronic inflammatory diseases
- Collect serum sample via trained phlebotomist
- Download report from <a href='/my-account/'>View reports</a>
- Share with clinician along with symptoms and timeline
- If advised, consider quantitative CRP for trend monitoring
- Seek medical care if symptoms are severe or worsening
FAQs
A test that reports whether CRP is elevated above a set cut-off rather than giving an exact number.
No.
No. CRP rises in many inflammatory conditions, including infection, injury, and autoimmune inflammation.
When your clinician needs an exact baseline value or trend monitoring over time.
Often same day or within 24 hours.
Serum blood sample.
Yes in many serviceable areas.
Strenuous exercise may influence inflammation markers; clinicians interpret with context.
Yes, chronic inflammatory states can keep CRP elevated.
Not always. Early infection or localized issues may show normal CRP; clinician assessment is key.
CBC, ESR, procalcitonin (in selected cases), and imaging depending on symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory medicines may reduce CRP; disclose medications to your clinician.
Download from <a href='/my-account/'>View reports</a>.
Consult your clinician; next steps depend on symptoms and other findings.
Notes
CRP indicates inflammation but not the cause.
