What Is an hs-CRP Blood Test?

hs-CRP is a more sensitive CRP assay used specifically for cardiovascular risk assessment.

Risk Categories

• Below 1 mg/L: low CV risk
• 1–3 mg/L: average risk
• Above 3 mg/L: high CV risk

What Makes hs-CRP Different

• Detects lower concentrations than standard CRP
• Used for cardiovascular screening
• Not useful for detecting acute infection (standard CRP is better)

Factors That Raise hs-CRP

• Obesity
• Smoking
• Chronic infections
• Autoimmune disease
• Poor sleep

When to Test

• Intermediate cardiovascular risk (10–20% 10-year risk)
• Family history of heart disease
• Monitoring anti-inflammatory treatment

Important

• Test when no acute illness (infection falsely elevates)
• Two measurements 2 weeks apart recommended