C-Reactive Protein, High-Sensitivity

CPT Code(s):
86141

Turnaround Time:
8 hours

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Serum or plasma (lithium heparin, potassium EDTA)

Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL

Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST), Plain Red Top Tube, Green Top Lithium Heparin, Lavender Top EDTA

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.

Rejection Criteria:
Citrate, Fluoride, or Sodium Heparin specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
8 hours

Refrigerated:
3 days

Frozen:
30 days

Clinical Significance

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a biomarker produced by the liver in response to inflammation. High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) measurement provides valuable clinical insights into the body's inflammatory state. The clinical significance and diagnostic implications of hs-CRP include:

Inflammation Assessment: hs-CRP is a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation. Elevated levels of hs-CRP indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, which can be triggered by various factors, including infections, chronic diseases, and tissue damage.

Cardiovascular Risk Stratification: hs-CRP is recognized as a predictor of cardiovascular risk. Elevated hs-CRP levels are associated with an increased likelihood of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Incorporating hs-CRP into cardiovascular risk assessment models improves the accuracy of risk prediction, particularly in individuals with intermediate risk.

Subclinical Atherosclerosis Detection: hs-CRP can identify individuals with subclinical atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the presence of atherosclerotic plaques before the onset of clinical symptoms. This early detection allows for targeted interventions to mitigate cardiovascular risk and prevent disease progression.

Guiding Treatment Decisions: hs-CRP levels may influence treatment decisions, especially in cardiovascular disease management. Individuals with elevated hs-CRP levels may benefit from more aggressive interventions, such as lipid-lowering therapies or lifestyle modifications, to reduce their cardiovascular risk.

Monitoring Therapeutic Progress: hs-CRP measurements enable healthcare providers to monitor the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing inflammation. Reductions in hs-CRP levels over time indicate improved management of inflammation and may reflect better disease outcomes.

Prediction Beyond Traditional Risk Factors: hs-CRP provides additional information beyond traditional cardiovascular risk factors like cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Incorporating hs-CRP measurements enhances risk stratification, aiding in identifying individuals who may benefit from targeted preventive strategies.

Research and Clinical Studies: Ongoing research explores the role of hs-CRP in various health conditions, further deepening our understanding of its implications. Studies continue to uncover the connections between inflammation, hs-CRP levels, and disease outcomes, informing potential therapeutic approaches.

In summary, hs-CRP is a clinically relevant marker that aids in assessing inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Its role in identifying subclinical atherosclerosis, guiding treatment decisions, and enhancing risk prediction underscores its importance in personalized healthcare. Integrating hs-CRP measurements into clinical practice supports informed decision-making, targeted interventions, and ongoing research to improve patient outcomes.