hsCRP (High-sensitivity C-reactive protein)

The normal reference range for hsCRP (High-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is For cardiovascular risk: below 1.0 mg/L is low risk, 1.0-3.0 mg/L is average risk, and above 3.0 mg/L is higher risk. Readings above 10 mg/L usually reflect an acute infection or injury rather than chronic cardiovascular inflammation, and the test should be repeated once you are well.. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, so always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.

Inflammation plays a central role in heart disease development. Elevated levels indicate increased cardiovascular risk even when cholesterol levels appear normal.

hsCRP rises with any source of inflammation. For cardiovascular risk assessment, persistently elevated levels (after excluding acute illness) reflect low-grade vascular inflammation linked to obesity, smoking, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and a sedentary lifestyle. Sharp, high spikes (often well above 10 mg/L) are caused by acute infections, recent surgery or injury, flares of autoimmune disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis), and active inflammatory conditions. Because a single high reading can simply mean you were fighting a cold, hsCRP should be measured when you are otherwise well.

A low hsCRP (below 1.0 mg/L) is the desirable result and indicates minimal systemic inflammation. There is no clinical concern with a low value. Regular exercise, weight loss, smoking cessation, a Mediterranean-style diet and statin therapy can all lower hsCRP.

When used for cardiovascular risk, hsCRP is best measured when you are free of any acute illness, and a borderline result is usually confirmed with a repeat test about two weeks later. For people actively reducing cardiovascular risk, rechecking every 6-12 months can track progress alongside lipids.