hs-CRP Test (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

The high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test is a specialised blood test that measures low-grade inflammation in the body with far greater precision than a standard CRP test. While a conventional CRP test detects significant acute inflammation, hs-CRP is designed to identify subtle, chronic inflammation that may otherwise go unnoticed. This makes it a valuable tool for assessing cardiovascular risk, monitoring inflammatory conditions, and supporting overall health evaluation in both patients and clinicians.

This test is particularly useful for individuals who appear healthy but may have underlying inflammatory processes, those with a family history of heart disease, or patients being monitored for chronic inflammatory conditions. It can also be used alongside other cardiac risk markers to build a more complete picture of cardiovascular health.

Biomarkers Included

Inflammation
- High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)

Why it matters
Chronic low-grade inflammation is increasingly recognised as a contributor to cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and other long-term health conditions. Unlike standard CRP testing, hs-CRP can detect inflammation at much lower levels, offering earlier insight into risk. A raised hs-CRP result does not diagnose a specific condition on its own, but it provides a valuable signal that further investigation or lifestyle intervention may be warranted. Regular monitoring can help track the effectiveness of treatment or lifestyle changes aimed at reducing inflammation.