Overview

The level of C-reactive protein (CRP) increases when there's inflammation in your body. A simple blood test can be done to check your C-reactive protein level.

A high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test is more sensitive than a standard CRP test. That means the high-sensitivity test can detect slight increases within the normal range of standard CRP levels. The hs-CRP test can be used to determine your risk of developing coronary artery disease, a condition in which the arteries of your heart are narrowed. Coronary artery disease can lead to a heart attack.