Inflammation Marker Guide
CRP, ESR, and hs-CRP — understanding inflammation blood tests and what elevated markers mean.
Source: NLM MedlinePlus, AACC.
What Is an hs-CRP Blood Test?
hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) measures cardiovascular inflammation. Below 1 mg/L = low risk, above 3 = high risk.…
What Is a Sed Rate (ESR) Blood Test?
ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) measures inflammation. Normal below 20 mm/hr. Elevated in infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer.…
CRP vs ESR: What Is the Difference?
CRP rises within hours and normalizes quickly. ESR takes days to rise and stays elevated for weeks. Both are non-specific inflammation marke…