Test Code 601
Test Details
High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
CRP is an acute phase inflammatory plasma protein synthesized by the liver. The “high sensitivity” CRP test is needed to detect very low levels of CRP that may be seen with vascular and/or systemic inflammation.
Methodology
Immunoturbidimetric
Patient Preparation
None
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum (0.5 mL minimum) collected in serum separator tube (SST/Tiger Top)
Alternate Specimen
- 1.0 mL EDTA plasma (0.5 mL minimum) collected in plasma separator tube (Pearl Top)
- Dried Blood collected on an AdvanceDx 100 card
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 2 months
Lab Values
High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
- Optimal: <1.0 mg/L
- Borderline: 1.0–3.0 mg/L
- Increased Risk: >3.0 mg/L
Clinical Significance
High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
- hs-CRP may be an independent predictor of developing CVD events and can provide independent prognostic information after initiating treatment.
- High levels of hs-CRP can also predict cardiovascular events and may be useful in determining how well a patient is responding to lifestyle change and statin treatment.1
References:
- Ridker PM, Danielson E, Fonseca FA, et al. JUPITER Trial Study Group. Reduction in C-reactive protein and LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular event rates after initiation of rosuvastatin: a prospective study of the JUPITER trial. Lancet. 2009;373(9670):1175-1182.
Treatment Options
High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
- Lifestyle modification
- Statins
- Niacin
- Fibrates
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
