C-reactive protein
Also written: CRP
What it measures
A substance that rises when the body has an inflammatory response.
Why it is ordered
A general marker showing that inflammation is present somewhere — it does not indicate the site or cause.
How to prepare
Usually no special preparation.
Units
mg/L — convert here
What to ask
- What direction does this suggest
- What is the next step
- When should it be repeated
This page does not include reference ranges and does not say whether your number is high or low. Reference ranges differ between laboratories and between people — read yours on your own report, with your clinician.