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hs-CRP
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The Test Sample
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What is being tested?C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver and secreted into the bloodstream, increasing when inflammation is present. CRP has been used for many years as an indicator of bacterial or viral infection and as a monitor of changes in inflammation associated with many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Some studies have shown that CRP also can be an indicator of risk of cardiovascular disease in apparently healthy people. However, the level of CRP in the blood is normally so low that an especially sensitive test is needed to measure it. This test is called high-sensitivity CRP or hs-CRP.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is drawn by needle from a vein in the arm.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
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This article was last reviewed on
November 8, 2004.
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