High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hs-CRP): Optimal Testing Recommendations
This test is recommended for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk assessment only.
Guidelines for Test Utilization
What does the test tell me?
hs-CRP, as a biomarker of inflammation, is an important indicator of underlying atherosclerosis which is a risk factor for cardiovascular events. [back to top]
When should I order this test?
To evaluate the risk of atherosclerotic CVD. [back to top]
When should I NOT order this test?
Do not use hs-CRP to investigate causes of inflammation.
Do not use hs-CRP as a screening test to rule out the presence of atherosclerotic CVD, or as the only laboratory test for assessment of atherosclerotic CVD. [back to top]
How should I interpret the result?
hs-CRP <2.0 mg/L: Lower risk of CVD. However, this does not exclude the risk of CVD.
hs-CRP >/= 2.0 mg/L: Higher risk of CVD. [back to top]
Is the test result diagnostic/confirmatory of the condition?
No. hsCRP measurement complements but does not replace other laboratory and imaging tests for atherosclerotic CVD evaluation. Currently, there is no single diagnostic/confirmatory test for the risk assessment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. [back to top]
Are there factors that can affect the lab result?
The monoclonal IgM gammopathy and Rheumatoid Factors may cause unreliable results of hs-CRP. [back to top]
Are there considerations for special populations?
The current cut-off values for hs-CRP are only used for adults and should not be used in pediatrics. [back to top]
What other test(s) might be indicated?
- LDL-c
- Triglycerides
- Lp(a)
- apoB
[back to top]
References
2019 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2019 Sep 10;140(11):e596-e646.