CRP (Inflammation)
Also known as: C-reactive protein, CRP test, CRP test kya hai, CRP zyada hona
C-reactive protein, a protein the liver makes quickly when there is inflammation or infection. It rises within hours and falls as you recover.
Why it's ordered
Checking for infection or inflammation, telling bacterial infections from milder illnesses together with symptoms, and following response to treatment.
Preparation
No fasting needed.
Typical adult values
| Normal | below about 5 mg/L (some labs use below 10 mg/L) |
|---|---|
| hs-CRP (heart risk test) | below 1 mg/L lower risk, 1–3 average, above 3 higher risk |
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's high
Mildly raised CRP is common with viral infections, obesity and smoking. Very high values (often above 100 mg/L) are more typical of bacterial infection or severe inflammation, but your doctor interprets it with your symptoms.
If it's low
A low CRP is normal.
Good to know
Standard CRP and hs-CRP are different tests: hs-CRP measures very low levels for heart-risk estimation and should not be done during an infection. A normal CRP early in an illness does not rule out infection, because it takes several hours to rise.
Common questions
What is a normal CRP level?
Normal is typically below about 5 mg/L; some labs use below 10 mg/L. Always use the range printed on your report.
What does a very high CRP mean?
Very high values (often above 100 mg/L) are more typical of bacterial infection or severe inflammation, but your doctor interprets it with your symptoms.
What is the difference between CRP and hs-CRP?
hs-CRP measures very low levels for heart-risk estimation and should not be done during an infection. Standard CRP is used to check for infection and inflammation.
Can CRP be normal at the start of an infection?
Yes. A normal CRP early in an illness does not rule out infection, because it takes several hours to rise.