OverviewC-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein made by the liver. The level of CRP increases when there's inflammation in the body. A simple blood test can check your C-reactive protein level.A high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test is more sensitive than a standard C-reactive protein test. That means the high-sensitivity test can find smaller increases in C-reactive protein than a standard test can.The hs-CRP test can help show the risk of getting coronary artery disease. In coronary artery disease, the arteries of the heart narrow. Narrowed arteries can lead to a heart attack. Why it's doneYour health care provider might order a C-reactive protein test to: Check for infection. Help diagnose a chronic inflammatory disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Learn your risk of heart disease. Learn your the risk of a second heart attack. A note about CRP tests for heart diseaseA high level of hs-CRP in the blood has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks. Also,...
