hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity CRP)
The liver raises CRP within hours of infection, injury or inflammation. An ordinary CRP test is designed for the high levels seen in acute illness, while the high-sensitivity method measures accurately in the low range. That makes hs-CRP useful for assessing persistent low-grade inflammation rather than acute infection.
Why Test CRP, high-sensitivity?
The test is used to assess low-grade inflammation, sometimes as an addition to cardiovascular risk assessment, and to follow known inflammatory conditions. It is not recommended as a routine screening test on its own: a single value says little, and the result is easily disturbed by any recent infection.
What Do High CRP, high-sensitivity Levels Mean?
A value above 10 mg/L usually reflects an acute cause such as infection, injury or a flare of inflammatory disease, and should be repeated once you are well. In the low range, levels below 1 mg/L are generally considered low risk, 1 to 3 mg/L intermediate and above 3 mg/L higher risk. These categories come from international cardiovascular research and are used as one factor among several, not as a diagnosis. Excess weight, smoking, recent exercise and pregnancy all raise the value.
What Do Low CRP, high-sensitivity Levels Mean?
A low hs-CRP indicates little measurable inflammation at the time of testing. It does not exclude disease: some inflammatory and autoimmune conditions run with a normal CRP, and the result should be read together with your symptoms.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Prolonged low-grade fever
- Aching muscles and joints
- Chest tightness or breathlessness
Who Should Get Tested?
- People with a known inflammatory or autoimmune condition being followed over time
- People with unexplained fatigue, fever or joint pain
- People assessing cardiovascular risk together with a doctor, alongside blood lipids and blood pressure
- Not informative during or shortly after an infection: wait until you have been well for a couple of weeks
How to Prepare for Your Test
If you are combining this with a lipid panel, fast for ten to twelve hours. Take the test when you are well: a recent cold, injury or infection raises CRP and makes the result difficult to interpret. Bring valid ID to your appointment.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your CRP, high-sensitivity levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CRP and hs-CRP?
Can lifestyle change lower hs-CRP?
Can medicines affect the result?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
Learn more about our team →Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.