Insight into your CRP level.
CRP (C-reactive protein) is the most widely used marker for detecting inflammation in the body. A test gives insight into your current inflammatory status, with personal explanation from our doctors.
Also known as: C-reactive protein, inflammation marker, hs-CRP
Personal assessment by our BIG-registered Bloodworks® doctors
By the Bloodworks editorial team
CRP blood test
- Total
- 59,-
Next step: choose your collection point
- No referral needed
- 1000+ collection points
- Results typically within 2 working days
- Every result reviewed by a BIG-registered doctor
Broader inflammation screening
Combine with Immunity & Inflammation
CRP is often combined with ESR and a full blood count for a more complete screening for inflammation and immune function.
View package · 139,-How Bloodworks works
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Schedule your blood draw
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Blood draw
Takes just a few minutes
Receive your report
Securely, typically within 2 working days from our physicians
Background
What is CRP?
CRP stands for C-reactive protein, a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. It is one of the fastest-reacting inflammation markers, as early as 6 to 8 hours after the onset of inflammation the level is elevated, and it also falls quickly after recovery.
CRP is a general marker, an elevation shows that inflammation is present, not where. Elevated CRP can be caused by an acute infection, chronic inflammatory disease, tissue damage, or following surgery. For detecting low-grade chronic inflammation, for example in the context of cardiovascular risk, a more sensitive variant is sometimes used: hs-CRP.
In brief
Acute-phase protein
Produced by the liver during inflammation
Rapid response
Elevated within 6 to 8 hours
Rapid recovery
Falls quickly after inflammation resolves
Non-specific
Shows that, not where
This marker is also included in
Testing several values in a single draw takes one blood collection and gives a more complete picture. The choice is yours.
Common reasons to test
When can insight into your CRP be valuable?
Below are some situations in which measuring CRP can provide insight.
Guidance with symptoms
With symptoms that can fit with inflammation, such as fever, pain, or generally feeling unwell, a CRP test gives an impression of the inflammatory activity at that moment.
Following up a previous result
Those who previously had an elevated inflammation marker can use a repeat measurement to check whether it has come down again.
With persistent fatigue
As part of broader investigation into persistent fatigue, CRP can show whether inflammatory activity could be one of the factors.
With joint or tendon complaints
Together with a doctor, CRP can be used to see whether measurable inflammatory activity is present with joint or tendon complaints.
After an infection or procedure
In consultation with your healthcare provider, a measurement can show whether inflammatory activity is subsiding again after an infection or a procedure.
Low-grade inflammation in view
With overweight or metabolic complaints, low-grade inflammation is sometimes considered; CRP can give a first impression here.
What your result means
CRP too high: what does your result mean?
CRP is measured in milligrams per litre (mg/L). Our doctor interprets your value against the reference ranges of the laboratory and your personal context.
A low value
A low CRP value indicates the absence of significant active inflammation at the time of testing. This is a reassuring picture. Bear in mind that very recently started inflammation (within 6 hours) or very localised inflammation may not yet be reflected.
A mildly elevated value
A mildly elevated CRP is common and can have many causes, a recent cold, a minor inflammation, or physical exertion shortly before the measurement. If in doubt, a repeat measurement after a few weeks may be worthwhile.
A significantly elevated value
A markedly elevated CRP may indicate an active inflammatory response or infection elsewhere in the body. For significantly elevated values, our doctor will proactively make contact with you.
How we interpret your result
Our doctors interpret your CRP value in the context of your symptoms, recent events (such as infections or exertion), and any known conditions. For significantly abnormal values, we proactively make contact with you.
Related tests
Often combined with CRP.
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine CRP with a theme package or related markers.
+ 29,- blood draw fee per orderFree from 225,-
Frequently asked questions
Everything you want to know
Do I need to fast for a CRP test?
No, you do not need to fast for a CRP measurement.
What is CRP and what is an inflammation marker?
CRP is a protein produced by the liver as soon as inflammation is active somewhere in the body. Because the level moves with inflammatory activity, CRP is also known as an inflammation marker. It is the most widely used inflammation marker in the blood.
Which complaints can fit with an elevated CRP?
Complaints that can fit with an elevated CRP include fever, pain, generally feeling unwell, fatigue, or a flu-like feeling. These complaints are general and can also have another cause, so on their own they say little. A CRP measurement shows whether measurable inflammatory activity is present at that moment.
Does CRP show where the inflammation is?
No. CRP shows that inflammatory activity is present in the body, not where it is. Further investigation by a doctor is needed to find the cause or the location of an inflammation.
How quickly does CRP rise and fall?
CRP reacts quickly. After the onset of inflammation, the level usually rises within a day, and after recovery it generally falls again within a few days. This makes CRP suitable for following the course of an inflammation.
What is the difference between an acute and a low-grade elevation?
With acute inflammation, such as an infection, CRP usually rises clearly and falls again after recovery. With low-grade inflammation, the level is mildly elevated over a longer period, often without clear symptoms. This picture is seen with overweight, among other things, and is assessed by our doctor in the context of your situation.
Can exercise or a cold affect my CRP level?
Yes, both can temporarily raise the result. Intensive exercise and a (recent) cold can mildly raise CRP for a few days. If you want a reliable baseline value, plan the measurement for a moment when you feel well and avoid extreme exertion shortly before the blood draw.
What is the difference between CRP and hs-CRP?
CRP is used for detecting significant inflammation or infection. hs-CRP (high-sensitivity CRP) is a more sensitive variant that can detect small elevations, relevant for assessing cardiovascular risk from low-grade chronic inflammation. We measure standard CRP.
How does CRP compare to ESR?
ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) is the older inflammation marker. CRP reacts more quickly (hours versus days) and is less sensitive to other factors such as age, sex, or medication. In modern practice, CRP is often preferred; ESR remains valuable for specific conditions.
Does medication affect my CRP level?
Anti-inflammatory medication (such as NSAIDs or corticosteroids) can suppress CRP. Please let us know of any medication you are taking so we can take this into account.
Does a normal CRP mean nothing is wrong?
No, not necessarily. Not every condition raises CRP, and very recently started or very localised inflammation is sometimes not yet visible in the result.
Can CRP be used for cancer screening?
No, CRP is not intended for cancer screening. The marker is not sufficiently specific or sensitive for that purpose. Other investigations are needed for cancer screening.
What do I do with my result?
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP, remains entirely your choice.
In the Health Guide
Read more about this value
Where do you give blood?
You can give blood at collection points across the Netherlands, usually without an appointment.
Find a collection point near you or read how a blood draw works.
Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine CRP with other markers via Bloodworks Select. The blood draw and collection fee is charged once per order, and is waived from 225,-.
Ready for insight into your CRP level?
You receive your CRP level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 working days. No referral required.