What hs-CRP measures
C-reactive protein (CRP) is made by the liver and rises when there is inflammation in the body. A standard CRP test is designed for the large rises seen with infections.
The high-sensitivity version measures much lower levels, which makes it useful for looking at the low-grade, background inflammation that changes slowly over time.
Why it matters for longevity
Persistent low-grade inflammation is associated with cardiovascular disease and other age-related conditions, and hs-CRP is the most common blood marker for it.
It isn't specific: it tells you inflammation is present, not where it comes from. A single reading says little on its own. It is most informative alongside lipid markers such as ApoB, and when repeated over time.
How it's tested
- Sample
- Finger-prick or venous
- Fasting
- Not usually required
- Units
- mg/L
Before you test
- Avoid testing within about two weeks of an infection, injury or vaccination.
- Skip very hard exercise for a day or two beforehand.
What can affect your result
- Recent infections, colds or injuries
- Intense exercise in the previous day or two
- Smoking, excess weight and poor sleep
- Some medicines, including oral hormonal contraception and HRT
Talking to your doctor about your result
Your report will show your result next to the lab's reference range. Ranges differ between labs and units, and a result inside or outside the range isn't a diagnosis on its own. Share the full report with your doctor – especially if a result is flagged, you have symptoms, or there's a family history that concerns you. Don't start, stop or change any medicine or supplement based on a home test without medical advice.
What a hs-CRP test costs
We haven't recorded a single-test price for hs-CRP yet – it's most often bought as part of a panel. See what panels cost by country in our European blood test price guide.
hs-CRP: common questions
Why is my hs-CRP high if I feel fine?
Short-term factors such as a minor cold, a hard workout or a small injury can raise hs-CRP without obvious symptoms. That's why an unexpected result is often repeated after a couple of weeks. Ask your doctor how to interpret yours.
Is hs-CRP the same as CRP?
It's the same protein measured with a more sensitive method. Standard CRP is used to look for large rises, while hs-CRP can measure the low levels relevant to long-term tracking.
Should I re-test a high result?
Doctors often suggest repeating an unexpected hs-CRP result once you've been well for a couple of weeks, because a single reading can be skewed. Discuss it with your doctor.
Related markers
Sources
[PLACEHOLDER: 2–4 primary references (guidelines, consensus statements) confirmed by the medical reviewer]