Why it's done

Your doctor might order a CRP test to:

• Check for inflammation due to an infection
• Help diagnose a chronic inflammatory disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Determine your risk of heart disease
• Evaluate your risk of a second heart attack

A note about CRP tests for heart disease

A high level of hs-CRP in the blood has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks. Also, people with a high level of hs-CRP who have had a heart attack are more likely to have another one compared with those with a normal hs-CRP level.

An hs-CRP test isn't recommended for everyone. The test doesn't show the cause of inflammation — and it's possible that a high level could mean the inflammation isn't affecting your heart, especially if the level is significantly higher than normal.

An hs-CRP test may be most useful for people who have a 10% to 20% chance of having a heart attack within the next 10 years, or intermediate risk. Your doctor will determine your risk level using assessment scoring tests that consider your lifestyle choices, family history and current health status.

If you're at high risk of having a heart attack, you should always get treatment and take steps to protect your heart health, regardless of your hs-CRP level.