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CRP Blood Test: Inflammation Marker Explained

CRP (C-Reactive Protein) is produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is one of the most sensitive markers of inflammation and infection in the body, rising within hours of an inflammatory trigger and falling quickly when the trigger resolves.

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Normal Range

Below 1.0 mg/L

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Unit

mg/L

What Your Results Mean

Normal

Low CRP indicates no significant acute inflammation or infection currently present in the body.

High

Elevated CRP indicates active inflammation, which can be caused by infection, autoimmune disease, injury, or chronic conditions. Very high levels (above 100 mg/L) typically indicate severe bacterial infection or major tissue injury.

Low

Very low CRP is normal and reflects a healthy inflammatory state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a normal CRP level? expand_more
Standard CRP below 1.0 mg/L is normal. High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) below 1.0 mg/L is low risk, 1.0–3.0 mg/L is moderate cardiovascular risk, and above 3.0 mg/L is high risk.
What causes high CRP? expand_more
Bacterial infections, viral infections, autoimmune diseases (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
What is hs-CRP and why is it different? expand_more
High-sensitivity CRP detects lower levels of inflammation than standard CRP and is specifically used to assess cardiovascular disease risk in otherwise healthy individuals.
How can I reduce my CRP levels? expand_more
Treat underlying infections or inflammatory conditions, exercise regularly, lose excess weight, follow an anti-inflammatory diet (Mediterranean diet), quit smoking, and manage stress.
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