C-REACTIVE PROTEIN HIGH SENSITIVE; HSCRP

What this test checks

Measures very small amounts of C-Reactive Protein, an inflammation marker. Slight long-term elevation can signal hidden inflammation in blood vessels, raising heart risk.

Why do people get this test?

Doctors use this to refine heart-attack risk beyond cholesterol alone, especially in people with intermediate risk.

When you should consider this test

• Family history of heart disease
• Borderline cholesterol or blood pressure
• Assessing inflammation in chronic conditions

How to prepare

No fasting needed. Avoid the test if you have an active cold or infection — results will be misleading.