Interpret Your C-Reactive Protein Results
Enter your CRP value below and get an instant, free AI interpretation — a plain-English explanation checked against WHO/IFCC reference ranges.
Medical Disclaimer
This AI-generated interpretation is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results may vary based on individual health factors not captured here.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. Read full disclaimer →
C-Reactive Protein Normal Ranges
CRP is an acute-phase protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation, infection, and tissue injury.
| Reference Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 10 | mg/L | Standard CRP; most labs use <5–10 mg/L |
| 0 – 3 | mg/L | High-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) for cardiovascular risk |
Also reported in: mg/dL.
Critical (Panic) Values
Critical High: > 200 mg/L. Values outside these limits require immediate clinical attention.
Why Doctors Order the C-Reactive Protein Test
CRP is widely used to detect and monitor acute infections, guide antibiotic use, and monitor treatment of inflammatory diseases. High-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) at lower levels (1–3 mg/L) predicts cardiovascular risk in apparently healthy individuals.
How to Enter Your CRP Result
C-Reactive Protein can be reported in mg/L or mg/dL. Choose the unit printed next to your result on the lab report so it is compared with the matching reference range.
What a Low or High CRP Can Be Associated With
Below the reference range
- Not clinically significant (low CRP is normal)
- Statin therapy (reduces CRP as a beneficial cardiovascular effect)
Above the reference range
- Bacterial infections (most potent stimulus — CRP often >100 mg/L)
- Tissue injury: surgery, trauma, burns, myocardial infarction
- Autoimmune diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, vasculitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Malignancy
This interpreter flags a result at or above 200 mg/L as a critical value. Results that extreme are uncommon — contact your doctor promptly, and seek urgent medical care if you feel unwell.
These are common associations, not a diagnosis. A single result is read alongside your symptoms, history and other tests — discuss it with your doctor.
What Can Change Your CRP Result
Before you read too much into a result, consider whether any of these applied:
- Obesity (chronically elevated CRP)
- Smoking (elevates CRP)
- Statin therapy (lowers CRP)
- Oral contraceptives (raise CRP)
Preparing for the test: No fasting required for standard CRP. For hsCRP (cardiovascular risk assessment), fasting for 9–12 hours improves accuracy.
Symptoms That Often Prompt CRP Testing
- Fever
- Redness and swelling at infection site
- Joint pain and swelling
- Chest pain (in pericarditis or MI)
- Abdominal pain
Want the full clinical guide to C-Reactive Protein?
Reference ranges, causes, symptoms, preparation, and FAQs.